Richard D. Riley

LACONIA - Richard "Dick" D. Riley, 79, died Dec. 7, 2009, at home. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Doris (Gosselin) Riley.

He was born in Ayer, Mass., June 7, 1930, to William and Julia (Gagnon) Riley. He grew up in Deerfield, then became a longtime resident of Hooksett. Upon retirement, he spent summers in Laconia and wintered in Delray Beach, Fla.

He served in the National Guard from 1949 to 1951.

He and his wife founded Riley's Sport Shop and shooting range. He retired in 1988.

IN HIS LIFE: He was recognized as the state champion in muzzle loading 1958-1960, a member of the state high power team in 1961 and achieved masters classification. He was a life member of the NRA and a vocal supporter and champion of the Second Amendment and Bill of Rights protecting gun owners. He proudly served as president of the NRA from 1990-1992 and on its legislative committee for three years.

He was an active member of his community in both elected and volunteer capacities.

He was founding president of Daniel Boone Club, member of the N.H. State Rifle and Pistol Association, Ducks Unlimited, Wild Turkey Federation, N.H. Waterfowl Association, president of Gun Owners of N.H., consultant to the N.E. State Police Chief Committee on Uniform Firearm Laws 1962-1963, N.H. state senator, 1964-1968, and a five-year term on the N.H. Fish and Game Commission. Dick was recognized as Hooksett's 1976 Citizen of the Year, 1980 Business Man of the Year and was founding president of the Hooksett Chamber of Commerce. He served as town selectman, moderator and on the budget committee. He was also active in the Granite State Antique Auto Club and Profile Auto League.

He is survived by his daughter, Debra Stanyan, her husband, William, and grandchildren Ryan, Tyler and Michelle. He is also survived by his extended family that loved their uncle and brother-in-law. He is preceded in death by twin sons, Dean and Daniel Riley; two sisters, Madeline Fortin and Margaret Drescher; and two brothers, Donald Riley and Phillip Riley.

SERVICES: A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, Jan. 23, at the Phaneuf Funeral Home, 243 Hanover St., Manchester.

Visitation will be held prior from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Memorial donations may be made to the NRA Foundation, 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, Va. 22030; or to the DHMC Neurology - Parkinson's Research, c/o Kevin Williams, DHMC 3C, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, 03756.

For an online guest book, go to: www.phaneuf.net.