Minneapolis, Minnesota
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dave Gillespie
November 2, 2021
I relayed my respect for Riley in my earlier message, and he is still often in my thoughts.
All the best to your family.
Dave Gillespie
April 5, 2021
To the Gilchrist family,
My buddies and I were regulars at Hiawatha on Sunday afternoons. Riley made it so much fun for us. My name is Dave Gillespie, and Riley and I definitely hit it off. He was such a caring guy, and used to give us guff because us white guys wore shorts in the Fall when it was chilly.
In August of 2005 my brother was sick with cancer, and Riley talked to me about it. I got the call my brother had passed while I was on the course, but after talking to my wife I decided to stay and play, as I had played the course with my brother.
Riley kept an eye on me the whole day, and offered me a ride in his cart numerous times. He was a sweet guy, and I still think of him.
Dave Gillespie April 2021
Janet Walton-Myers
November 7, 2006
It does not seem that Riley is just away. He has always been the older brother I never had, from the day we met him at Nicollet Park in 1953. He holds a very special place in the Walton family Hall of Fame. A very special and true friend, my life had been better because of his kindness and always everlasting friendship. I know you are proud of him and have many special memories. My prayers are with you always.
Rileys' favorite hobby...with Punky and Shaun in California
S.D. Gilchrist
November 7, 2006
As we have reached the one year anniversary of the after life of Riley Gilchrist-my beloved father, I would like to thank those of you who have kept our family in your thoughts and prayers. It has been comforting to know that my fathers life was not in vein and that he was loved and cherished by so many good people. I want to take this opportunity to thank my family members for their loving support through this changing year; my mom Kat, my step-mother Judy, my brothers Jeffrey & Devon(Kamal), my sister and brother-in-law Alyson & Greg, my wife Tracey and my two sons Geoffrey & Salim, and a host of aunts,uncles,cousins, and friends, especially Kieth Parker, Rev.Bryan Allen,and the Eiland Clan for their indearing support and conversation when I needed someone to share a moment with. It is my hope that our creator has a divine purpose for 'us all' and that the body we occupy on this earth is only for a brief life, until that day that eternal life is granted and I can join my dad(Riley)again forever more.
Six feet four he stood, with a grin and a command that those who knew him could understand.
Through my fathers eyes I could see the world...He was a father and a mentor, not just to me my brother and my sister, but to any young person he came in contact with.
To some he was coach,
To others it was officer,
And yet to others it was colleague, friend, or brother.
I don't know why God blessed me to be one of his sons but whatever the reason my victory of life has been won...Through my fathers eyes.
Jeff Herstein
November 30, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Riley was first class and I am glad that I had the opportunity to meet and work with him.
Chuck Donaldson
November 19, 2005
To Judy,
Riley thank you for all that you have done. You were my mentor and friend. Thanks for showing me the ropes on Sq 640. I am so glad we got to golf together, I just wish we had one more course to play. Thanks for being there over the years and allowing me to share my thoughts with you.
Riley I know you already found a great golf course and you are having the time of your life.
You touched so many people with your smile and words of encourgment. May God bless.
Chuck MPD 6th PCT "C" Shift
Alyson Nelson
November 15, 2005
My dad was an amazing man. Not many people get to choose who they would like to be a part of their family. In my case, my dad not only chose to be with my mother but did so knowing that I came with the package. Although I was too young to know for sure, I am positive that he became my father with all of his heart and soul when he married my mother, if not before. Although he legally adopted me, he adopted numerous other children within his heart and through the support he provided them.
He could be very stubborn and very disciplinary in his approach to guiding those around him but he was always there when you needed him. He had a very big heart. As I read the other kind comments in this guest book, none of it is a surprise. However, as I see the consistent themes, it warms my heart to know that he touched so many others in the same way.
I would like to thank all of my dad's friends, colleages and family members who helped us celebrate his life. If he could have attended his funeral himself he would have wanted to thank everyone for coming, thank everyone for making his life so special and thank everyone for helping his family celebrate his life. He would also have wanted to share stories, tell jokes, tease those closest to him and laugh. I know that I did this during his viewing and reception, I hope others were able to as well.
I love you dad and I will miss you very much. Rest in Peace.
Katannah (Kathy, Kat) Day
November 14, 2005
Riley and I shared good times and bad times and I can honestly that the good times prevailed a thousand times over. When I was younger, I didn't appreciate the person Riley was, to be married to him meant that you had to be willing to share him with everyone. I was too young to know how to do that.
But Riley and Judy taught me. They were so generous to me and would not let me withdraw from the family. They insisted that I come to family reunions, to birthday celebrations, etc. and Riley delighted (you know his sense of humor) in saying, when asked who I was, "Oh, I used to be married to her", and then he'd chuckle. To try to sort out who was whom at these gatherings was really funny, and usually people would just shake their heads in confusion. It didn't matter, we were a family and this is what families look like.
Alyson, you gave Riley the privilege and pleasure of raising a daughter. And you became a sister to my sons Jeffrey and Shaun. I love the bond between you, Greg, and your children and the families of Jeff and Summer and Shaun and Tracy. Judy and I are bound by shared history and shared family and she has been an absolute rock of strength and grace at this difficult time.
I cannot count blessings without including my sons, grandbabies (even though some of you are now grown) and great grandbabies.. I am so very proud of each of you and will continue see your father (grandfather, great-grandfather) in each one.
And thank you Riley for being a presence in the life of my youngest son, Devon. Yesterday, Jeffrey reminded me of this incident. Some years ago, I decided it was time to reclaim my birth name, Day. I asked Devon if he wanted to change his last name also and he said simply, "I'm fine with Gilchrist". I guess that says it all.
To the entire Gilchrist family, Judy, Alyson and family, brothers, sisters, cousins, thank you for drawing me into a warm circle of friends. I will say prayers for the soul of Riley Gilchrist every day of my life.
With love,
Kathy
Nicole Kopari
November 12, 2005
Dear Gilchrist Family,
I am so saddened by the news of Rileys passing. I had the great opportunity to meet Riley on the sidelines of the Gopher football games. I can assure you that his smiles, hugs and occasional fireball meant the world to me. My prayers go out to your family.
Melody West Scroggins
November 11, 2005
To the Gilchrist Family,
The heartfelt sympathy of my family goes out to you. We were saddened to hear about Riley's passing. I have such fond memories of him when I was a child as one of my father's friends and fishing buddies. We have pictures of the yearly canadian fishing trips, with smiling, laughing men happy to be in the woods with an outhouse, friends and a fishing pole. Riley always had a hug and a smile everytime I saw him. He will always be fondly remembered.
From the family of Mel West.
Melody, Melisha and Sharon
Tom Mahoney
November 11, 2005
Judy and Family, It is with heavy heart that I express our sympathy. The days with Riley on the Gopher Chain Crew were always a day brightner. He was fun loving and still the ultimate PRO in his approach to life, family, and job. He will be remembered in my heart and prayers. God Bless Riley and what he stood for. Tom Mahoney
Dale & Jean Carlton
November 11, 2005
Dear Judy and Family,
We are shocked and deeply saddened by Riley's death. Our sympathy gos out to each of you in your loss.
We have known you and Riley for over 30 years. As you known Riley has many friends, but he treated each of us like we were special. He was not someone who passes away and you say it is too bad he couldn't have lived to enjoy retirement. He enjoyed every day as he lived.
Riley always brightened up the room when he entered. A little of the light has gone out in each of us now who knew Riley.
Jan and Russ Michaletz
November 11, 2005
Judy and family:
We were so saddened to learn of Riley's death. Our days in the neighborhood were always fun when Riley was there---from his days selling Avon products (and if Riley was selling, we were buying!)to his home repair advice. His loving manner and booming laugh were larger than life. We'll all cherish our moments with him. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Jefferey Byrd
November 11, 2005
Thanks for everything. We'll miss you. Prayers out to the family
Roger Day
November 11, 2005
Judy and Family,
I knew Riley for many, many years as a friend, co-worker, and family member. Never, ever in all those years did I see him angry. He was a man of great integrity; his humor was unparalleled among humanity. All who knew him recognized his contribution to his community. Riley was a man who was always there in a time of need. May he rest in peace.
Steven L. Soucy
November 10, 2005
I'd had the pleasure of knowing Riley for just about 30 years. First, through the MPD, then playing on the same golf league, and ultimately working together again at Hiawatha Golf Course following our retirements. As so many have attested to, Riley had a warm and constant smile. In all of the years I knew him, I cannot recall seeing him in a 'bad mood'. His smile was like a magnet, and that is what instantly endeared him to people, that, and his genuine concern for all. He was taken from us much too soon. My deepest sympathies go out to both his family and all of the other people whose lives he touched, as everyone will surely miss him. It's often said that a mans wealth is measured by the number of friends he has.....the Gilchrist family can be proud of the fact that Riley was one of the richest that has walked this earth. Rest In Peace Riley!
Becki McVey Nesbit
November 10, 2005
To the Gilchrist Family,
I was saddened to hear about one of my "buddies" passing. I have known Riley since I was 15 and working nesr the 6th Precinct(in 1971). He also went to Central High School with my sister, Carla, I found out later. I continued to bump into him at sporting events when he was working off-duty. He even sent my Mom a card when she was in the hospital in 1997. He was a special friend to our whole family and he will be missed terribly.
Our heartfelt sympathy and our prayers go out to you all.
God Speed
Kathie Eiland-Madison
November 10, 2005
To the Gilchrist Family,
Mr. Riley was like a father to our family. He was a great role model and a wonderful man. He possessed a gentle spirit and a wonderful sense of humor. Continue to cherish his memory. He will be missed! May god continue to bless you and keep you during this time!
The "Eiland" Girls and their families
Elizabeth Held
November 10, 2005
Dear Gilchrist Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Riley was one of those rare gems that brightened other peoples lives. I first met Riley while working in City Hall and then was lucky enough to become his neighbor. He brightened my day even with a passing greeting. He was a positive force and had the gift of really being present in the moment no matter how brief. I'm going to miss him.
B'Shalom
Beth
Bob Beckers
November 10, 2005
I had the pleasure of serving with Riley on the Minneapolis Police Department. Assigned to the same shift at the 6th Pct. Good guy!! Fun to be around and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Renee Wilcox
November 10, 2005
Judy, Alyson, Jeff and shaun,
Uncle Riley was an amazing man. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by the whole family and we will always remember him for all the wonderful things he did for everyone. I wish I could be there with you. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Love always Renee, Camron and Donovan
Robert & Myra Gaines
November 10, 2005
Dear Gilchrist Family,
Bob and I both knew Riley for different reasons. I met him in Minneasota when he was on the police force. Bob met him through his close freind and Riley's brother Gary. Our hearts go out to you in your hour of need. We both knew Riley as a great guy and wonderful person. Stay strong in your faith and know that Riley is being received in Heaven by Our God Almighty.
Robert & Myra Gaines
Nancy Leegard
November 10, 2005
My sympathy to the Gilchrist family. Our paths have crossed many times since I first met him in the late 60s when I worked with Kat. The guy got around (Vikings games, Hiawatha Golf Course, Government Center) and never forgot a face. I will miss his great smile and getting to see all the pictures of his family.
Chris Bue
November 10, 2005
My deepest Sympathy to Riley's family,
I worked with Riley at the golf course, he always had a smile on his face. He touched so many of us in so many ways. I will miss him so.
Life is fragile handle with pray.
Chris Bue
Carl Britt
November 10, 2005
The world has suffered a great loss. Riley was such a likeable individual, working with officials on the field. I will always remember that big smile and wonderful personality. God bless you Riley. You will be truly missed by me and the Big-10 family.
ron adler
November 10, 2005
Riley was one of the good guys and he will be missed.
ron adler
Lance Burns
November 10, 2005
Jeff my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
peace
Lori Peterson
November 10, 2005
The warm and caring words recorded in this book by friends and family are a testament to Mr. Gilchrist's character and humanity: here was a life that was noticed, and a presence which was felt by all who knew him.
We're born, we live, and we die, and throughout our lives we hope that we matter to those around us. Riley Gilchrist mattered.
May you find comfort and inspiration in the love expressed by your family and friends. You're in my thoughts.
Kira Doebler
November 9, 2005
My deepest sympathy to Riley's family,
Riley was my "buddy" at the Public Defenders Office. In the four years I was there, I don't know of a time when we weren't in each other's office joking around, talking about the Vikes or about things in general. He was truly a great man with the biggest heart. He did so many good things that people didn't even know about. I am truly honored and blessed to have known him. I will miss him and his zest for life. God bless.
Shirley Gohner
November 9, 2005
My deepest condolences to the family.
I met Riley at the dog park in the summer of 2002. My dog Jackson introduced us, he found Riley in that familiar stance atop the hill, watching the airplanes take off and land. Patches and Jackson became fast friends, and it was Riley that my dog would seek out in days and years to follow.
Riley and I spent many days at the dog park those early mornings, we had the same work schedule and became friends. Fighting the mosquitoes on hot summer days, drenched in rain on others and stomping our feet to keep them warm in the winter. He spoke fondly of his family as we passed the time, Patches chasing the birds and Jackson chasing his ball. He adored his family, quite simply. He always gave my brain a lot of food, he helped me view life in a positive manner, his insight a gift.
His laugh boomed across the park, his storytelling abilities were memorable! He spoke of his colleagues at the MPD, respectfully and with reverence. He was proud of them, and of himself. He never referred to going to the Temple as work, always something he looked forward to and enjoyed immensely, I believe. He loved going there. He relished his golf time and his always in hand cigars. He loved to talk football and even tolerated my baseball talk!
As time went on, a Saturday morning dog park group of a few and at times, many, developed and Riley and his laughter and stories or perhaps, just his presence, was the center. We shared a lot in the elements, and I know there was always a twinkle in his eye, for certain I could count on a big hug as a greeting from Riley.
I shall miss you, my dear friend. You offered and gave me much, that heart was enormous.
Rest in peace, Riley. You were made of the best that humankind has to offer.
Stephen McCarty
November 9, 2005
Riley was truly in inspiration for me when I joined the MPD in 1991. You have my heart felt sympathy.
Timothy Bathke
November 9, 2005
Dear Judy,
I will miss seeing Riley at Hiawatha and driving down the alley, or putting fertilizer on his tomatoes. He was a wonderful man, and the city, and especially our neighborhood will miss him terribly. My deepest sympathies with you and Patches during this difficult time. Love, Tim
Alma Robinson (Day)
November 9, 2005
To Judy, Alyson,Jeffrey
Shaun,Wendell, Gary, Jay, Diane and Helen,
My prayers are with you. I will always have fond memories of Riley. We had some good times together and he will be truly missed by all.
Always,
Lorraine & Patrick Teel
November 9, 2005
To Judy, Alyson & All of Your Family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you today and will continue. Both Pat & I will miss Riley's laugh and his booming presence at our annual block party. I will miss chatting with Riley and visiting at the dog park. I know that so many other "dog parkers" will also miss the warm presence of Riley and Patches. He was a giant amongst men and the world is a better place because of Riley Gilchrist.
Dan Stoneburg
November 9, 2005
To the Gilchrist Family;
Riley has worked for me at Hiawatha Golf Course since April 1998. His "Always Positive" personality and commitment to excellence were admired by us all. He was an important and well respected member of our staff, as well as a great friend. He will be deeply missed by many who socialized and worked with him every day. I feel blessed to have known him and I am extremely proud to have had him on my staff. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all his family and friends.
Sandra & Butch Miller
November 9, 2005
Riley was a friend and a mentor to everyone he came in contact with. All that knew him could tell a story or two about him. Our deepest sympathy to Judy and the family and we want you to know you are in our prayers. God Bless.
Sandy Baker
November 9, 2005
Riley was really one of the good guys and I'll miss him and those huge hugs. Bless you all.
Darrah Larson
November 9, 2005
Dear Gilchrist family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart hurts for you. Riley was a wonderful man. I worked with him at the PD office. I loved his hugs and that laugh of his. I watch the vikings games and I always look for Riley on the sidelines as "part of the chain gang". I am going to miss him.....
Darrah Larson
Marta La Belle
November 9, 2005
I would like to extend my sympathy in the passing of Riley Gilchrist. I new him as Officer Gilchrist when he worked at Washburn High School years ago (1970-73. I worked in the office at Washburn and saw Officer Gilchrist on a daily basis. We became friends and I respected him very much. I too remember his smile and how kind he was to everyone.
Diane Gay
November 9, 2005
When Riley comes to mind, I see a great guy with a wonderful smile. I especially remember an MPD awards ceremony, decades ago, when I sat with him in the audience. As a civilian employee, I was very out of place there. Riley talked with me and made me feel a little more at ease. Imagine my surprise when I ran into him at HCGC a couple of years ago - same friendly guy, same big smile! He will be missed!
Heidi Tarshish
November 9, 2005
In the short time I knew Riley, I learned that he was a cheerful, upbeat person with a lot of kindness & compassion. He always showed how much he cared about us & regularly did kind deeds to reinforce that. I'll never forget when he brought us each a rose. It was not for any particular occasion, just an act of love & generosity. He was filled with love & had such a generous heart & spirit. We will remember him for a very long time, for he touched us, each one of us, in a way which reminds us of how each one of us should aspire to be. We hope Riley will rest in peace & that his family will be comforted by their own fond memories.
B'shalom (in peace), Heidi
Jeff Berg
November 9, 2005
Riley was full of the Holy Spirit and he loved to share it with every soul he touched. May his soul rest in the peace of Christ.
Maxine Nelson
November 9, 2005
Riley was one of a kind. He was truly a caring person. It was special just to know him. He was always up beat and a bright spot in every family get together. It will never be the same without him.
Joy Ellis Bartlett
November 9, 2005
Dear Judy and All of Riley’s family-
I am so very saddened to hear of Riley’s passing. He made such a wonderful presence in all of our lives with his warmth, caring, and full, deep laughter that brought good feeling to all around him. I will never forget the times when he and my husband, Jeff, would stand talking at the events at which we would meet when Riley was the security officer on duty. They would both laugh so heartily that all of us around would feel good from what was radiating from the two of them. Riley’s charisma was awesome. From as far back as days at Warrington, Bryant and Minneapolis Central, until Sunday past, Riley touched our lives in such a positive way. He will always be remembered with love, as well as with thankfulness that we had an opportunity to know him. I know that his and Jeff’s laughter will ring out in heaven as they meet once again.
Dave Murrin
November 9, 2005
I knew Riley as a cop and an investigator in the PD office. He was both a professional and a friend. He is really going to be missed.
Kimbrley Day
November 9, 2005
It was always a pleasure running into my uncle when I worked downtown and receiving his hugs. He truly was a gentle giant who will be greatly missed but never forgotten. My thoughts and prayers go out to Judy and my cousins. Love you all!
Ron & Jan Fitzsimmons
November 9, 2005
Dear Judy and All of the Gilchrist Family:
Please accept our Deepest, Heartfelt Sympathies for your loss. The pain of your loss will ease with time, but the Memories will last FOREVER!We will most certainly miss Riley! He befriended EVERYONE he came in contact with and knew everyone in our whole neighborhood! We will miss that Booming Voice and that Boisterous Laugh that could be heard throughout the block! You always knew when Riley was around!
We Loved his sense of humor and I will miss his E-mail stories. He was a Wonderful Neighbor and was Always there to give a helping hand!
With Love & Hugs,
From Both,
Karen Appelbaum
November 9, 2005
Gilchrist Family,
I hope you find peace and comfort during this difficult time. Riley was a great person, who made the world a better place. His warm personality, laughter, gentle nature and enjoyment of sports will bring a smile to my face when I think of him. I am thankful to have worked with him and call him a friend. He will be dearly missed.
Jeffrey Hayes
November 8, 2005
Rest in peace Riley, I, along with numerous people will miss your great spirit around city hall, the Government center, M.P.D. etc.. My thoughts and prayers are with the Gilchrist family at this very difficult time. Jeffrey C. Hayes. M.P.D. Property/Evidence unit
Rod Timmerman
November 8, 2005
I just can't decide what I will miss most about you, pal!
Will it be your quick smile, maybe your banter, I don't know, maybe your wit and wisdom. It PROBABLY won't be your goofy cigars though. You could make a whole golf course stink! The truth be known, I will miss that too....
I guess maybe I DO know what it will be that I miss about you most! It'll be the days you and I showed up at the club, teams were picked and I was picked to be on your team! I will most of all miss your smile and your "high fives" when we teamed up for an assist or some points. That meant alot to me. You, the respected ol' vet, me, the new rookie.
I was honored to be on your team a bazillion times but it will never, never be enough. I looked up to you for a number of reasons, Riley. One of which was that I'm only 5'10" but you were a gentle giant among men!
Your legacy to me will be your heart whether on the street or on the courts. Rest assured that you leave this earth with a stellar reputation and the pride of us who were on your team..
Go in peace, my friend. You touched the hearts of many who will never forget you........
Lynn Fulton
November 8, 2005
My family knew Riley from his days with 3rd Precinct. What a special and unique man he was. He will be missed very deeply by so very many.
He was a gift from God.
tim hoffer
November 8, 2005
the gilcrist family,
i was saddened to hear of riley's passing. i work part time for the vikings and at hiawatha golf course.we saw each other alot between the dome and the golf course. i think the best way for me to describe him is that he was a very good guy. very normal. i am very sorry for your loss. it is a loss for everyone who came in contact with him. may god bless him
Lester Harris
November 8, 2005
My heart aches. I met Riley several years ago thru a former co-worker (Dale C.) and every since that day I looked foward to our bantering,ribbing with each other, hugs, and serious reminders about keeping safe in the streets as we do our daily jobs. I will always remember the wedding gift (honeydew melon), cause he was right, "WHEN HONEY SAYS, YOU DO" thanks Riley for being a part of my life.
Helen Hatfield(Gilchrist)
November 8, 2005
As Riley's baby sister or as we affectionately called him (Junior)I can say without a doubt that there was know one like my Big Brother. He loved life. He loved golf,peach cobbler and his cigars. But most importantly he loved his family.
I will miss receiving his crazy jokes. I will miss him very very much.
Pat Thomas
November 8, 2005
Judy and family,
There are no words that can say the things that are in my heart for the loss of Riley. He was a great friend to all who knew him.
My prayers are with you and your family.
Carole MacLean
November 8, 2005
I was greatly saddened to hear the news of Riley's passing. I will miss him each morning as I enter Temple. His presence was always a delight and "he" made all of us feel special each time we entered the door. He will live on in all the wonderful memories of him. My prayers are with your family.
Laura Aldrich
November 8, 2005
To Riley's Family:
I am so heartbroken to hear at the world's loss of Riley. I am so very sorry. Words can not tell you how much I thought of him or how much I will miss him. I will never ever be able to walk into Temple again thinking about his cheerful smile or kind words. I will miss our Vikings/sports chats, his big hugs, or the way he always made me feel special. The world lost one great person.
Sincerely,
Laura
Jana McVey
November 8, 2005
Jeff and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Riley was so very special to us also.
Jana McVey
Glen Hausfeld
November 8, 2005
Dear Judy & family.
And to all of Riley’s friends so many to count.
All of my prayers and thoughts are with you.
Riley was one very, very, very, special Man.
It would take a large book to say every thing I could about him.
God be with you.
Glen James Hausfeld
Denise Redgate
November 8, 2005
Dear Judy & family, We send you our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Riley. Riley was such a special person and lit up the room when you talked with him. He had a way of always making you feel special whenever he talked to you.
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
B'Shalom,
Denise & Bruce (Redgate)
Showing 1 - 61 of 61 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more