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Michael Riney Obituary
PEORIA - Michael John Riney, 63, of Los Angeles, CA, formerly of New York, NY, and Peoria, IL, passed away on Friday, September 22, 2017, after battling cancer.
He is survived by his son, Lucas, also of Los Angeles; as well as his sister, Kristi (Terry) Moushon of Peoria, IL; and step-brothers, Dan (Pam) Armbruster of Nashville, TN, and David (Marcia) Coulter of Chesterfield, MO.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Laurie (Jim) Love of Peoria, IL, and John (Alice) Riney of Manchester, MO.
Raised in Peoria, Michael enjoyed involvement in local theater before pursuing his acting passion at The Goodman School of Drama at The Art Institute of Chicago. Following graduation, he was quickly cast in the original New York Broadway production of "Grease," and then a national tour of the same show. Michael appeared in multiple off Broadway shows and summer stock productions. Relocating to Los Angeles in 1992, he had feature appearances in multiple films and television series. In 2013, Michael became a member of the acclaimed Actors Co-op of Los Angeles. Here, he found a family of actors centered in faith, community and passion for theater.
Very special and heartfelt thanks are extended to Michael's amazing friend and advocate of many years, Ned (Suzanne) Schmidtke. Also, a very special thank you to Catherine and Josua Gosenson, Sean McHugh, Vito Viscuso, Tracey Bunka and Treva Tegtmeier, for their compassion and support during the most difficult times.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life will be held in the David Schall Theatre at Hollywood Presbyterian Church, 1760 N. Gower Street, Hollywood, CA, on Monday, October 9, at 7 p.m.
Memories may be posted to the online guestbook and memorials may be made to the Actors Co-op, 1760 Gower Street, Hollywood, CA 90028.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Riney
6 Entries
Peggy Holt-Lane
December 10, 2017
I was deeply saddened to learn that my cousin, Mike, had passed away. I know he is resting peacefully in God's great arms. My deepest sympathy to Kris, and Mike's son, Lucas.
John Flowers
November 29, 2017
I knew Michael briefly when providing care for him during his last months. Although our relationship was short, I remember Michael fondly, as a a very thoughtful, creative, caring man. As one of his RNs, I looked forward to my shifts with him and I remember that even with his multiple medical issues, he found ways of helping, sparking humor at awkward moments and providing an aura of love and understanding in the room. I am saddened to find that he has passed but feel fortunate to have met him and his family and friends during the short time I did know Michael.
Rebecca Calderas
October 1, 2017
With love, prayers and deepest sympathy I light this candle in his memory
Cynthia Darlow
September 30, 2017
I did the original Broadway production of "Grease" with Michael as well as several of the touring companies. I always thought he was a sweetheart, and I know he loved Lucas more than anything. The "Grease" network is an amazing one, we may go for years without contact, but upon reuniting - we pick right up where we left off, as if no time at all had passed. There is a song in the show called "We Go Together" , it became our motto, a true description of the joyful gang we became. Michael will always be a part of that. We go together Michael, you won't be forgotten. My heart goes out to his family. we truly share your sadness.
Nanciann Horvath
September 30, 2017
So very sorry to read this. I first met Michael doing a film for the 168 Hr. Film group. We would see each other from time to time at events & he was always so guanine & caring! My prayers goes out to all his family and friends. Heaven has another ANGEL looking down on us all
Nanciann Horvath
September 30, 2017
I first met Michael through the 168 Hr film group. We saw each other from time to time at events. He was always so genuine & caring. Heaven has another angel looking down on us all!
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