Photo courtesy of Swartz Funeral Home - Flint
Grand Blanc, Michigan
RIKER, Russell L. - of Marathon Shores, Florida, formerly of Burton, age 91, died Monday, October 9, 2017 at Genesee Care Center. Cremation has taken place and a private memorial service will be held at a later date in Marathon Shores, Florida. Russ was born in Toledo, Ohio on September 23, 1926, the son of the late Gerald Riker and Marie Faw, and step-father William Kinder. He married Patricia Jean Dodder in August, 1953 and she preceded him in death on May 17, 2005. Russ proudly served his country in the Marine Corps during World War II. After his service, he joined the Flint Fire Department, retiring as a Battalion Chief, after serving 27 years. Moving to the Florida Keys in 1975, he enjoyed fishing, snorkeling, walking and most of all his family and the friends he made through the years. Surviving are his children, Thomas (Danita), Russell, Jr., Nancy (Jerry), Laura (Marty), Steven (Lori); 14 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; sister, Alice Shirley; brother, Robert (Carol) Kinder; many nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his son, Gerald, granddaughter, Stephanie Ridge; grandson, Gavin Riker; brothers, Dale and George Riker; and sisters, Mary Messer and Patricia Byerly
Russ was a very special person to me. We met a long time ago and remained friends forever. I think of him a lot.
Sugar Dickinson
October 01, 2018 | Eugene, OR | Friend
Russ was a great neighbor for us in the KEYS. Bob Schroeder
September 30, 2018
We will miss him. Sympathies to all.
Sugar and Bob Dickinson
October 22, 2017 | Eugene, OR
We are so sorry to hear of Russ's passing. Living in Florida we have been able to stay in touch over the years but of late only by phone. Our deepest symphony to his family, we know he will be missed.
John Bauldry
October 20, 2017 | New Smyrna Beach, FL
"going to the Rikers mom" I had said that phrase so many times in my years growing up as their neighbors, Nancy and Laura were two of my best buddies. I loved their mother Pat, of course their pool! everything about that family I absolutely loved! They were the 1st to get color TV, Russ was our hero when he saved the life of that young girl that was featured in the local paper. I often think about this wonderful family and the happiness they brought everyone in the neighborhood. I will never...
Lisa Jenereaux
October 20, 2017 | Las Vegas, NV
Tom, Danita, Lisa, Eric, and family.
I am so sorry to see the passing of your father/grandfather. I only just saw this as I was looking up my Dad's service information. Our family's thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love Melissa King-Daggett
Melissa King-Daggett
October 19, 2017 | Burton, MI
Mr. Riker will be missed. He was a kind gentleman who loved children. He dug a pool years ago for the children; all in the neighborhood were welcomed. Mr. Riker also watched those children from time to time so the mom's could get housework done! He was a wonderful neighbor for many years and raised a wonderful family. Love to All, Bill, Elaine, Joe, and Cindy Carpenter and MaryAnne Filka
William Carpenter
October 12, 2017 | Burton, MI
My condolences to the family. May God strengthens and comfort his loved ones in this difficult time.
October 10, 2017
Love you always
October 10, 2017
