Christopher G. Riley

Christopher G. Riley

Christopher Riley Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Jan. 2 to Jan. 3, 2008.
Riley, Commander Christopher G., U.S. Navy passed away suddenly from an aortic aneurysm on December 23, 2007. He was 36. The husband of Treska Riley and the devoted father of three children; Tarin, 8, Julian, 4, and Eden, 2 years old, he graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1992 and Syracuse University in 1994. A published author, he wrote The Modern Organ Guide and founded Modern Organ Consulting, facilitating greater understanding of the organ. He was a member of the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. His additional family includes his father Robert T. Riley, Sr.; sisters Bobette Wynter (Courtney); Terry Riley Patton; aunt Bernice Gibson, uncle Ronald Coleman (Lawonna); Godmother Alex Babione; nieces Jerrica Patton, Andrea Bradley (George), Kira Tabron, Danielle Tabron, Elizabeth Wynter and Ayana Wynter; nephews Jason Patton, Rowan Wynter and Aidan Bradley.Services:On Wednesday, January 2, a gathering of remembrance of Chris' life will be held from 4-7 p.m. at Union Memorial United Methodist Church 1141 Belt Avenue, St Louis, MO 63112. The funeral service will be at 12 noon, January 3, preceded by public viewing at 10 a.m. at Union Memorial United Methodist Church. Internment will be at Valhalla Cemetery 7600 Saint Charles Rock Road, St. Louis, MO 63133. On Saturday, January 5, 2008, at 11 a.m., a memorial service will be held at the Metropolitan Baptist Church, 1225 R Street NW Washington, DC 20009. A memorial fund has been established in support of education for his children. Donations can be sent to: CDR Chris Riley Memoriam, PEO Submarines (PMS450), 614 Sicard Street, SE, Washington, DC 20376

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March 2, 2008

Diane Washington-White posted to the memorial.

February 27, 2008

Carlton and Cassandra Ingram posted to the memorial.

January 30, 2008

LORETTA CALHOUN posted to the memorial.

Diane Washington-White

March 2, 2008

Even though we were there at the Memorial Service in D.C. I did not have the opportunity to say how much I cared about Chris and the fine young man that he was. My son, Derrick and he were best friends while in the Naval Academy and for many years after. He was always polite; respectful; caring and a good role model for any young person. We will miss him. May you be blessed with God's love and know that he always sends a comforter in our time of need.

Carlton and Cassandra Ingram

February 27, 2008

Treska, I am sorry for your loss. May God continue to encamp His loving arms around you and your family.
Carlton and Cassandra Ingram
Syracuse

LORETTA CALHOUN

January 30, 2008

TO TRESKA AND FAMILY: MAY GOD CONTINUE TO COVER YOU WITH HIS LOVE

LORETTA CALHOUN

January 30, 2008

TRESKA & FAMILY, MAY THE PEACE OF GOD COVER YOU WITH HIS LOVE.

Regina Jackson

January 28, 2008

You and your family have my deepest sympathy. As each day goes by, may God continue to strengthen each of you. Chris will be surely missed.

Beverly Mack

January 25, 2008

Dear Treska and children:
My deepest sympathy to you all during this time of sorrow.
It has been many years since I last saw you and your husband when you both attended Second Olivet. I can tell you from experience that day to day God will comfort you through your tears and give you strength to bear the hurt.

Angela Williams

January 24, 2008

Dear Treska and family, know that my prayers are with you, I am here for you in any way I can.

L. Orlando Perry

January 24, 2008

I am very sorry for your loss. There is nothing I can say that will make it better, but we are praying for you and your family, and may God bless your family.

From the Perry family ('Cuse grads Bethany '91 and Orlando '93)

Jackie Tate

January 23, 2008

My prayers go out to Treska and family, I pray that God will give you peace and joy. I am the Executive Secretary for PMS450, I have worked with Chris for many years. Chris was a very polite and interesting person, through him I have learned a lot about family values. I will treasure his friendship forever. May God continue to bless you and your family, if I can be of assistance, please do not hesitate to call me.

Ollis Mozon

January 16, 2008

Treska and Family,
Almena and I pray that the comforting presence of Jesus enables you to face the challenges of life as you move forward after your loss of Chris. The way will not be easy but through Christ you will heal and triumph. I was chaplain at the Naval Academy during Chris' time there and have rich memories of a smiling young man of faith singing in the Gospel and Protestant choir.

Kristin Stroker

January 11, 2008

Dear Treska and Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Memories keep those we love close to us forever. May you find peace with time. Know that I am here for you and feel free to contact me anytime.
Holding you in my thoughts,
Kristin Stroker

Lisa Haley

January 11, 2008

Treska and children,

We are praying for you during this time of grief. How saddened we were to hear the news; we so admired your husband and loved getting to know you two when we were stationed at the Coast Guard Academy. Hopefully we can get in contact with you by phone. We love you and again, our prayers are with you!! Love, The Haleys', Brian, Lisa, Luke, Kaitlyn, and Patrick.

roger markland

January 10, 2008

I had the pleasure of going to Forsyth school with and growing up with him as a kid. I have fond memories. We kind of lost track of each other but every time we would talk it was like we just talked the night before. He was a great person and friend. My heart goes out to his family

Wayne Rolland

January 10, 2008

Dear Riley Family,
I wanted to share a brief story with you. I have been working in and about DC for about 8 years now and I have met many people that wear Khakis and I have the utmost respect for them all. Chris was a cut above the others though in my book. We worked closely on a project for the SSGN program. Through all of the meetings, and phonecalls he kept his sense of humor, his calm, and a great demeanor. He was one of the very best Naval officers I had the privilege of working with. He was always positive and I loved that because it is so easy to focus on the negative things that impact our daily work. He was above all of that at all times, he was such a breath of fresh air. I met him while working the SSGN project and he moved over to the VIRGINIA Class which is where I originally came from. I was recently back in D.C. a month or so ago and we again crossed paths in the passageway. Chris said "Wayne, you gotta come by and chat with me, I understand you have a lot of background in VIRGINIA Class" I smiled because I knew he didn't really want or need any "background" he just wanted to spend a few minutes catching up…I'm sooooo sorry I didn't get a chance to do that.

God bless him, and God bless you.
V/R,
Wayne Rolland

Dee Sapp

January 10, 2008

Treska,
My heart sincerely goes out to you and your 3 babies. This can't possibly be easy for you. I am keeping you in my prayers and you know that I'm available to talk or to help out with your children.

Alex Ellermann

January 10, 2008

Chris wasn't just a great guy. He's a guy who made the people around him want to be better people.

We sang together for four years in USNA's Protestant Choir, and briefly in the Gospel Choir. When we were plebes, Chris invited me to join him at Gospel Choir practice, and it was my first introduction to gospel music. I absolutely loved it, and he and the rest of the choir members helped me come to appreciate the complexity and joy in the music. Unfortunately, I wasn't as smart as Chris, and I had to drop out of the choir to focus on passing my classes. Nevertheless, I'll always remember those evening practices in the Chapel basememnt with great fondness.

Chris and I went our ways in the world, but we always kept tabs on one another, as classmates do. A couple of months ago, we were able to get together with our families, and I was delighted at the prospect of reinvigorating our friendship.

While that won't come to pass, I look forward to assisting Treska and the kids in whichever way I can.

I miss that guy.

Nikki Mejstrik

January 8, 2008

Dear Treska and family,
I can only imagine what a difficult time you are going through.You were in my thoughts on your birthday this past month.I know I do not keep in touch as I should, but you are always in my thoughts and prayers. We've known each other 20years,and my pride as your friend continues strong.You have been such an admiration and strength to those in your life and I know GOD will continue to provide you with strength, courage, and wisdom to move through the pain that engulfs you at this time. Please know that just as diligently as you searched for me years ago, I am trying to search for you as well and pray you make use of my email- I included my phone number when you feel up to talking.Treska,I look forward to hearing from you and hope you will lean on me in this time of need.
With love always,
Nikki,Ashleigh Mejstrik, and Ann Smith

Masco Settles

January 8, 2008

Treska, Terry, Mr. Riley Sr.

Jerrie, Tiffani and I are praying for you that God will strengthen you and that you will find encouragement from all of the words, awards, and visits from everyone who the Riley family has touched through Chris. Chris touched many and those many will continue to touch others in his memory, and be assured that Chris nor the family will NOT be forgotten.

We Love you all!!!

Peace and Purpose

Cheri Monk

January 8, 2008

Treska, Taran, Julian and Eden,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you. I worked with Chris for a brief time in PMS 394. What I noticed the most about him was his strong character in regards to the way he carried himself at work and the way he spoke of his family at home. It was truly a blessing to have him in our office. Lean on each other and your extended family and friends in the coming days and months. They will help you through. Know that Chris's love for you and his love for our Saviour, Jesus Christ, will give you the strength to make it through each hour of each day. When a similar event happened to me many years ago, I went to the Word for help. I found that Rev 21:1-4 helped me the most. Perhaps it will help you as well.

Vincent Calhoun

January 8, 2008

To Treska, Tarin, Julian and Eden, my most sincere condolences for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow. I met Chris when he first reported to NAVSEA as a co-worker on the SEAWOLF Program. He was always smiling and uplifting whenever you saw him. When we last spoke, we talked about his recent promotion, and scheduling a congratulatory lunch. I felt he was a good friend. I count it an honor and a priviledge to have known him and I will miss him.

Fair Winds and Following Seas! Chris

JOSEPH RHINE

January 7, 2008

My deepest sympathy to the Riley family. Chris was a great co-worker as well as a great individulal. Chris always had a smile on his face and a kind word for all that came in his presence. I knew Chris for a short time here at NAVSEA but, he made a lasting impression on me. I will truely miss Chris and I will always have him in my thoughts.

James Winters

January 7, 2008

My deepest sympathy goes out to Chris' family. I worked with him at NAVSEA PMS394. He was a very good young man and he will be greatly missed. I will keep the family in my prayers. Do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance.

Louis Reid

January 5, 2008

I knew Chris for a short time I was temporarily assigned to NAVSEA for 6 months. I found him to be a very warm and friendly person. The last time I saw him heading to Groton was about a month ago at the Baltimore Airport and he walked up to me and said hello and carried on a very warm conversation with me. He will truly be missed for the person he was.

Andrew R. Newman

January 5, 2008

Dear Riley Family,
I had the pleasure of exchanging the baton with Chris on our high school track in St. Louis. Whether our relay won or lost, Chris was always their with a smile to lift us up after a race and head us in the right direction. And so our angel has taken wings. Let his spirit be the wind behind us, moving us forward to a greater purpose.

STSCS (SS) Samuel Boyd

January 4, 2008

Dear Treska, Tarin, Julian, and Eden,
I find myself very privileged to have associated with such a distinguished officer as CDR Chris Riley. I can imagine that his drive, determination, and passion for what he did here, was a true reflection of who he was as a husband, father, son, and friend. We have all been forever touched and changed in a good way by his choice to live as a great man. God Bless You All.

Stan Cunningham

January 4, 2008

To the family,

Chris will surely be missed. I had the pleasure of serving with him in the Navy as a fellow member of the Engineering Duty Officer Community. He also supported the National Naval Officers Association with his attendance and mentorship of more junior officers. His pleasant demeanor and engaging personality always brightened the room. I am also proud to share the fraternal bonds of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity with him. I knew him to be a Godly and responsible man. Our days on this earth are not promised and we must therefore make the most of them during the time we are here. I believe that Chris accomplished the mission that God laid out for him. I am proud to have served with him as a colleague, a friend and a brother. If there is anything I can do, please contact me.

Stan Cunningham
CDR USN (Ret)
703.340.8465

President
Kappa Epsilon Lambda Chapter
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Vice President
Washington, DC Chapter
National Naval Officers Association

Dan Canny

January 4, 2008

To the Riley family,
please accept my sincere condolences for the sudden passing of Chris. I interfaced with then-LCDR Riley when I was on my prior sea duty, and had the pleasure of working with him again during my current shore tour at Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Groton. I will remember him for his continuously positive, upbeat attitude, and as an outstanding, professional Naval officer. You and Chris are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
STSCS(SS) Dan Canny - SUPSHIP Groton

Patricia Ward

January 4, 2008

To the Riley Family;

May God be a comfort to you in knowing that he has just welcomed another Angel into his kingdom. Though the road may seem rough, and sometimes the going will be tough, just hold onto "God's Unchanging Hands". May you find the strength and peace that passeth all understanding and be of good courage. God bless you all!

kim sanders

January 3, 2008

Treska,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. May GOD grant you comfort and support in the upcoming time ahead. Chris was an inspiration and a pure joy to be around to all who knew him.

With love,

From the Sanders and Garner Family

Allen Lim

January 3, 2008

To the Riley Family,
I've had the pleasure of working with Chris in the same office, travelling with him, dining with him, and going to church with him onboard a submarine during sea trials testing. He is one of the nicest, most kindhearted individuals I know. He has nothing but kind words to say about others. I've seen him face and tackle many challenges at work with the calmness that anyone would hope to have. I have the utmost respect for him. Most importantly, I know that Jesus is his Saviour because Chris projects His light as part of his nature. I pray that God's words and promises will provide you peace and comfort during this time of mourning.

JoAnn Hall (Peebles)

January 3, 2008

To Mr. Riley, Terry, Treska, and the children: I grew up across the street from Chris on Tennyson Ct. Chris (as well as everyone on and around Tennyson Ct.) is a part of me. When I think about Chris, I see his beautiful smile and I can hear the excitement he always had about life. He always aspired to do great things, and indeed he grew into a well accomplished man. I am very proud of him and his legacy, and I am so happy to have know him and the Riley family. I will cherish the pictures I have of Bobby and Chris at my birthday parties they attended when we were all children. My prayer is for GOD to strengthen each of you in this time of bereavement and that our Lord continues to bless the Riley family and all who were touched by my precious neighbor, Chris.

Marilyn Peebles-Ruffin

January 3, 2008

Chris, as your child-hood, directly-across-the-street-neighbor, I've known you, your parents & siblings (Bobby & Terri)my entire my life. Although I was only a few years older than you, I remember babysitting you on a couple of occasions :) Even then, you were destined for greatness. Throughout the years I've learned (from my parents) what a fine man you had become. I'm soooo sorry I hadn't gotten to see in person. My, how time flies. May you rest in peace, Chris. May the Lord continue to bless your young family.

Robert Preisser

January 3, 2008

Dear Treska,

We are praying for you and your family. I can't imagine the grief you must be feeling, but I pray that you will also find comfort in Christ, and knowing that this separation is only temporary. I know it is no less painful in the short term, but we can only imagine the joy we will have when finally reunited with our loved ones.

Victor Gavin

January 3, 2008

I had the pleasure of working with Chris at NAVSEA. He was a very dedicated man and will certainly be missed by all of us here. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Kevin Cronin

January 3, 2008

It was our privilege and pleasure to work with Chris over the last few years. Our prayers are with his family.
Friends at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Newport, RI

George Drakeley

January 3, 2008

To Chris’s Family
CDR Chris Riley was a very intelligent, competent dedicated Naval Officer. But more than that he was one of the nicest people I knew. He was a true professional and it was a true pleasure to work with him. His loss is a major tragedy to all of us you had the privilege to know him.

Barbara Smalling

January 3, 2008

Dear Treska and Family,
May the peace of God which surpasses all understanding comfort you now and in the days to come. Chris was here at my apartment to visit with my nephew,Derrick, for an hour or so during the summer. I can still see his smile, and I remember his boundless energy. Truly, I pray for you to feel the many, many healing prayers which are being said for you during this time of mourning.
God Bless You,

Marcus Thomas

January 3, 2008

To the Riley Family,
I have only had the luxury of knowing CDR Riley for a few months and in that time, I found him to be one of the most amazing people I had the opportunity to come in contact with. Always smiling, and the nicest person I have ever met, he will truly be missed and his memory cherished. I wish you the best in getting through such a tragic time.

Melvin Dempsey

January 3, 2008

May our Lord Jesus Christ comfort your heart during this sorrowful time. Though the night seems dark, remember that joy comes in the morning. God bless you and your family and he will see your through.

Joanne Butcher

January 3, 2008

To The Riley Family:
My prayers and thoughts are with you during this time. My pray is that your memories bring you comfort and Peace in the days to come.

Loren Ybarrondo

January 3, 2008

My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. I've worked with Chris for about two years. His skill and professionalism made my job easier. I’ll miss his pleasant attitude and pray that time and God’s mercy will ease your pain.

Donna Baynes

January 3, 2008

Mrs. Riley and Family

My deepest sympathy during this difficult time.

ETC(SS) Matthew Walewski

January 3, 2008

To the family and friends of CDR Riley, I offer my condolences as you journey through these trying times. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Although I had very little interface with CDR Riley, other than those times of the year when we performed our Physical Readiness Test, whenever I did have the opportunity to talk with him, he always seemed to be upbeat and high on life and I can only imagine that this came from the strong family and friends that he had in is life. Hold tight to the memories you have of the times that you shared together knowing he is in a better place always looking down upon us. Fair Winds and Following Seas Chris.

Jim Conzelman

January 3, 2008

Chris was a year ahead of me at John Burroughs. As a senior in high school he had already established himself as an exceptional scholar, athlete and gentleman. Promoted at every opportunity as a Naval Officer, he clearly used his many gifts, made a powerful impact wherever he went and will be sorely missed.

Ronald Coleman

January 3, 2008

To Treska and all,

Only God knows how things could have turned out like they have, and yet we know that he is the creator of all things.

In his infinite wisdom, we can only pray to him for understanding how things unfold. He is such a mighty God, and we are such small pebbles in his vast desert of many, many pebbles of sand. The amazing thing is how he knows every little nick on each pebble. He allows each of us to ask him for counsel and forgiveness in our own way, no matter what gender, color or tongue.

Now, as all of the family and friends prepare to take CDR Chris Riley to his final resting place near his Mom and Brother, we know that he has already joined them in Heaven, a place far away from the earth that we live on.

What a joyous trio they now have to play the songs for God that they once played for us here on earth.

To Treska, Taran, Julian, and Eden, you were so lucky to have a husband and father so rich with love, strength and honor.

To my Brother-in-law, Robert Riley, you have been blessed to have such a fine son, one that could make any parent so proud.

To my niece Terry and her children, Jerrica and Jason, you too have been blessed to have a brother and uncle with such strong ideals and a love for his entire family.

To Jason, find strength in your uncle's memory for as long as you live.

To my friend Alex Babione, you have shared so much with this family, and I am so glad to have met you although the circumstances may not have been those that we might wish for, please continue to love them as you always have.

To the many family members and friends, I wish to say thanks for being there for this family always and in the future as they rejoice in knowing that Chris is with God forever!

My Blessing to you all on this very special day for Commander Chris Riley!!!

Love Uncle Ronnie

Tracey (James) Hayes

January 3, 2008

Treska,
The last time I saw Chris was at our 10 year USNA reunion...he was holding Tarin as the proud father, and they both were beaming, looking identical! What a wonderful man, and I feel fortunate to have known him. May your loving memories bring you peace and comfort.

Jared Keys

January 3, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. A great man, great Officer and a great Alpha. You are always in our prayers.

Yvonne Atkinson

January 2, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Calvin Foster

January 2, 2008

Chris ran track at the Naval Academy. He excelled at running the race that the Lord called him to run. He is a model and inspiration for all of us who served in the Navy and for all of us who are fathers, brothers, husbands and friends.

Debbie Carter

January 2, 2008

My Dearest Treska,
My Prayers go out to you. May ourGod comfort you during this time.
Just allow him to carry you through this devastating time.
I have such fond memories of Chris he was part of our Syracuse family for many years. And to see him fall in love with such a wonderful women. Well that was priceless. Please know you were and are Blessed to have been one in Gods eyes with Chris.
With all our Love.
Debbie Carter,Anna,Jesse

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March 2, 2008

Diane Washington-White posted to the memorial.

February 27, 2008

Carlton and Cassandra Ingram posted to the memorial.

January 30, 2008

LORETTA CALHOUN posted to the memorial.