C. John Riley

C. John was born on June 24, 1917 to A. C. and Flora (Hooper) Riley in Kendrick, Oklahoma. Fire Chief C. John Riley, Retired, who developed the Air Force Academy Fire Department 48 years ago, died November 11, 2006 after a long battle with bone cancer. Riley came to the Academy in 1957, after 16 years working for Fire Departments in Oklahoma City. In 1957, the Pikes Peak Fire Fighters Association was formed with Riley as one of the organizers. Riley was successful in educating the people at the Academy about fire safety. After retirement, John enjoyed fishing, making doll house and taking care of his yard. In his very twilight years he liked to sit on his back porch and watch the wildlife in his backyard. Chief Riley is survived by: his wife of 56 years, Ruth; daughter Joan of Colorado Springs; his sons, Johnnie of Huston, TX and Alan of Midwest City, OK. He is also survived by two brothers, Melvin and Acie, Jr. 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. His sister Rachel Jarman preceded him in death. Chief Riley requested he be cremated and that no services would be held. If you wish, donations can go to your favorite charity or Odyssey Hospice in John's Name. (4465 Northpark Dr., Ste 400, Colorado Springs, CO 80907-4200.