Gerald F. Riley

Gerald Frederick Riley was born on March 20, 1936, the son of Oral and Elenora (Schurke) Riley at home near Deloit, Iowa. He was baptized and later confirmed his faith at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. He attended country school near Deloit and Denison High School. Gerald enlisted in the United States Army and bravely served his country during the Korean War. He was a proud and dedicated veteran who sacrificed. 

 On August 30, 1959, Gerald was united in marriage to Sharon Kinney at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison, and the couple was blessed with the birth of three daughters: Barbara, Brenda and Brigitte. 

 Gerald's career was as varied as it was fulfilling. He worked in several industries, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. From his time at Farmland Foods, Dubuque Packing Plant, Hedstrum Concrete, American Protein, the local car wash, and many years spent farming, Gerald approached each job with a strong work ethic and a commitment.

 Gerald was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Deloit. His passion for fishing took him to beautiful locations like Spirit Lake and Linn Grove, where he found solace in the peaceful waters and shared joyful moments with his loved ones. Alongside devoted partner, Gerald embarked on adventures with their 5th wheeler, discovering the wonders of camping under the stars. His love for camping and attending local fairs allowed him to connect with nature and his community. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed keeping his home yard nice. One of his greatest joys was listening to Polka music and if there was a local dance you would have seen him there. In his later years, he enjoyed crafting model planes and spending countless hours tinkering with them. Additionally, Gerald's passion for tractor pulls and car shows added excitement and camaraderie to his life.

 Gerald passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Burgess Health Center in Onawa at the age of 88 years, four months and five days. Prior to his passing, he resided at the Pleasant View Care Center for about five years and enjoyed his time joking with his caregivers. 

 Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon L. Riley; brother, Robert Riley and many brothers-in-law. He is survived by his three daughters: Barbara (Marcial) Carballo, Brenda (Steve) Rau, and Brigitte (Ken) Harnage; five grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; sisters: Phyllis Otto of Madrid, Darlene (Gaylon) Reetz of Deloit, Bernice Vetter and Pauline Johnson both of Arcadia, Annie Hikins of Deloit and Linda Riddle of Ute; many nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends. 

 Visitation with family greeting friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 29, 2024, at the Huebner Funeral Home in Denison. His funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday July 30, 2024, at Faith Lutheran Church in Deloit. Interment with military honors will be held at Crawford Heights Memory Gardens in Denison. Memorials may be directed to the Pleasant View Care Center in Whiting to fix up their gazebo.