William Rodger Riley

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Sep 15 1940
Apr 15 2019
78 Years
East Falllowfield, Pennsylvania

William ("Bill") Rodger Riley, 78, of East Fallowfield, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 11th, 2019, at Kindred Hospital in Havertown, PA, surrounded by family.  He was the beloved husband of Janet (Ayers) Riley, with whom he shared 53 years of marriage.

Born in Washington Township, Franklin County, PA, Bill was the son of the late Betty M. (Leasure) and Leslie H. Riley, Sr. 

Bill spent his first 18 years in Pleasantville, PA, and graduated from Titusville High School, class of 1958.  Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy.  After successfully completing basic training, Bill attended both Submarine School and Naval Nuclear Power School, where he received training in air compression, machining, welding, and nuclear submarine operations.  He then served as a Submarine Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator and attained the rank of Machinist Mate First Class.  While stationed in Bainbridge, MD, Bill met his wife.  He eventually completed his Naval career in Charleston, SC.  For exemplary service and good conduct, he received two National Defense Service Medals.

After his discharge from the Navy, he began his career in the private sector as a machinist and welder for McGuckin and Pyle, Incorporated, in Downingtown, PA.  Bill eventually assumed responsibility as department supervisor before retiring in 2000 after 33 years of service.

Known to close friends as "Uncle Bill", he could build or repair almost anything, always willing to lend a hand.  Throughout his life, he was an avid outdoorsman and skilled hunter.  Bill most enjoyed spending time in the mountains of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Canada.  Most days, he spent time working outdoors in the woods behind his home and visiting Ozzie, the neighbor's cat.  For relaxation, he enjoyed watching the Golf Channel and episodes of North Woods Law.

In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by his daughter, Ann, wife of Mike Balthis of Newark, DE, and son, Michael Riley and wife, Karen, of New Mexico, and grandsons, Brendan and Brett Balthis.  He is also survived by his siblings: Leslie Riley and wife, Bertie, of Titusville, PA, Joan Presto and husband, Larry, of Neilltown, PA, Ann Wimer and husband, Ben, of Meadville, PA, Charles Riley of Sebastian, FL, David Riley and wife, Shelby, of Pleasantville, PA, Sue Downing of Oil City, PA, Don Riley and wife, Kathy, of Oil City, PA, Gail Coulter and husband, Denny, of Pleasantville, PA, Beverly Confer and husband, Rodney, of Pleasantville, PA,  Barry Riley and wife, Heather, of Las Vegas, NV, Brad Riley of  Las Vegas, NV, Becky Presto and husband, Jeff, of Pleasantville, PA.  He was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Jean Wright, and brother, Dale Riley; sister-in-law, Joan Riley, and brother-in-law, Rick Downing.

The family would like to give special thanks to the physicians and medical staff at both the Brandywine Hospital Critical Care Unit and Kindred Hospital for their care and compassion.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Friday, April 19th, 2019 at 11 AM at Wilde Funeral Home, 434 Main St., Parkesburg, PA, with visitation from 10 AM until the time of the service.  Burial will take place at a later date. 

Online condolences can be posted at www.wildefuneralhome.com

Service Date: 
Apr 20 2019 - 10:59am
Service Location: 
Wilde Funeral Home

Condolences

Janet,

My deepest sympathy at the loss of you beloved husband Bill.

We were neighbors for a short time and i have fond memories of Bill.

Take care and GOD BLESS you and your family.

Deepest regards,

Larry Barlow

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Janet,

Ever since yesterday when I heard about Bill, I can’t get you off of my mind.   I’m so sorry to hear about your loss.   I was remembering all the times Rita and I saw you two out on a Saturday morning at Yoders for breakfast.  While we remember all the good times,  Rest In Peace Bill.   Your cousin,  Rose

 

 

 

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Dear Janet and family and friends of William R. Riley, MM1(SS),

 

On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans - USSVI, please accept our sincere sympathy at William’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find kindness to warm you, sympathy to comfort you, and cherished memories to bring peace to your heart.

 

We are forever grateful for Bill's service to our country in the United States Submarine service.   To our Brother of the Phin we say, “Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch.”

 

“Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16.

 

Rev. Ray Fritz, EM1(SS) - Acting National Chaplain United States Submarine Veterans, USSVI and Assistant Chaplain Carolina Piedmont Base, USSVI. Leave a message at (803-619-1121)

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To the Riley Family,

I had the pleasure working with Bill at McGuckin and Pyle.  I was a young draftman their and was constantly looking to Bill's expertiece in the design of machine.  Bill shared he knowlegde of flat pattern design with me and I still use this infomation today!  He will be missed by all!

 

Ron Finch

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