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Michael Riley Obituary
February 16, 1957 - December 15, 2024
Mike Riley, age 67, of Madison, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on the 15th of December 2024 after battling cancer for 11 years.
Mike was born on the 16th of February 1957 in Madison, Wisconsin. He is the son of Tom Riley and Mary Cruger. He was a proud 1975 Verona High School graduate and worked for 35 plus years at Federal Industries where he made many long-lasting friendships.
Mike had a larger-than-life personality. He was fun and witty, and you could always count on him to buy a round. He was also a walking encyclopedia when it came to movies, music, and sports trivia.
Mike was a sports enthusiast throughout his entire life. In his younger days, he was an exceptional athlete. Later in life, even though he had no children of his own, he supported his friends' and family's children at all their sporting events. He cherished each and every one of his family members and many friends.
Many would be surprised to know that he was a poet and song publisher. Notably, in 1996 he received an Outstanding Achievement in Poetry award from The National Library of Poetry for a poem, aptly titled, Friends.
Remaining to cherish Mike's memory are his significant other, Nicki LoPresto; father, Tom Riley; mother, Mary Cruger; sister, Sue Riley-Whetstone (Bob); sister-in-law, Susy Riley; and many other loving family members.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Chris "Tup" Riley; stepmother, Lila Riley; stepfather, Bruce Cruger.
We will be celebrating Mike's life at Sidelines at the 5th Quarter, 161 Horizon Drive, Verona, Wis. 53593 on January 4th, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Memorial donations to go to https://give.wiscmedicine.org/give/393214/#!/donation/checkout.
The grief of our loss may be with us for a long time, but the joy of our memories will stay forever.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Riley
John Clark
December 28, 2024
May his kindness, loving heart, and warm ways
Be with us all throughout our days!
Feeling honored and privileged to be part of his journey!
Tara Wagner-Peck
December 22, 2024
I am so very sorry to hear of Mike's passing. He truly was a very fun, funny guy and was always the life of the party. He, and my dear friend Nicki, were a perfect match. Nicki being more on the quite side, made more room for Mike to quote all of the things he learned/heard through out his life. I know your hearts are hurting, but you were so blessed to have him in your lives. Big Hugs.
Karen Riley
December 20, 2024
Always loved when Spike would belt out New York New York ! I bet you are singing with Sanatra, Tup is dancing and Lila is cooking up a storm!
Rhonda Doherty
December 20, 2024
Mike was a very dear friend to me over the years. We stayed in contact through Messenger, and occasional visits for a drink or lunch. He was so kind and generous to all he knew. I tried to be encouraging and a support to him, but he was also that to me. I will miss him so much. My thoughts and prayers to Nicki, Sue, and the rest of his family and friends
Renee Victoria "Doherty"
December 20, 2024
Mike was so kind and had such a big heart. He is truly missed. Hugs and love!
Tessie Mahoney
December 20, 2024
When I met Mike Riley I had always thought his nickname was "Skip" and he never corrected me and it became a special bond for us. I will always remember his upbeat personality, love for life and devotion to many family and friends. Aloha and rest in peace
Karen Grady Pautzke
December 20, 2024
Mike was bigger than life. And always smiling and up beat. He sure will be missed around town. Always enjoyed time to chat. Hugs to all
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