Riley R. High

1935 - 2025

April 24, 1935 - February 7, 2025

Riley R. High, of Wheatland, CA, passed away peacefully at 89, on February 7, 2025, at Kaiser Hospital in Roseville, CA, surrounded by family after a short battle with cancer.

He was born on April 24, 1935, in Hoffman, OK, to Riley Thurman, and Gladys Violet (Napier) High. Riley was the youngest of five children.

In the early 1940s, his family moved to San Jose, CA, where he attended school, graduating from Campbell Union High School in 1954.

Shortly after graduation, Riley joined the U.S. Army before transferring to the U.S. Air Force.

While on leave, he met the love of his life, Marlene Fassler, and they married in 1957. The military took them to France, where they welcomed their daughters, Patricia and Cynthia.

In 1961, upon completing his service, Riley and his family returned to California, where their youngest daughter, Angela, was born.

In 1964, they settled in Wheatland, CA, where Riley began his career as a carpenter, joining Carpenters Local Union #46.

His skilled craftsmanship contributed to numerous projects in the area, including the Oroville Dam and Bullard's Bar Reservoir.

Though carpentry was his profession, he also enjoyed farming, but Riley's true passion lay in community service.

In the early 1970s, he and Marlene became involved with the Plumas 4-H Club as leaders, dedicating over 57 years to mentoring and guiding local youth.

Their unwavering commitment to the 4-H program shaped the lives of countless children, earning Riley the affectionate title of "Grandpa" from generations of young people.

For over 50 years, he also proudly served as a ring man at the Yuba-Sutter Fair, assisting in countless auctions and supporting young exhibitors as they sold their livestock projects.

He took great pride in helping local youth succeed in their endeavors. His dedication extended to the Lindhurst High School FFA program, where he was honored as an Honorary Agricultural Advisor for his years of involvement and support.

Riley's warmth, kindness, and unwavering generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His devotion to family, friends, and community created a legacy of love and service that will be cherished forever.

Riley is survived by his daughters, Patricia Dickens, Cynthia Palu-Quigley, and Angela Bartlett; numerous cousins; nephews; nieces; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 2 PM to 7 PM at Lipp and Sullivan Funeral Home, in Marysville, CA.

Graveside services will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 1 PM at Fairview Memorial Cemetery in Rio Oso, CA.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the American Legion Linda Post No. 807 on 5477 Feather River Blvd, Olivehurst, CA. A potluck luncheon will be held during the gathering, main dish will be provided, guests are invited to bring a favorite side dish to share.

The family welcomes all who wish to come to honor and remember Riley, sharing stories and memories of a truly remarkable man who was "one of a kind" and will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.