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C. Riley Obituary

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.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Nov. 25, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for C. Riley

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Gerry (Price) Hall

December 4, 2006

John was married to Liz and they lived next door to me at 311 E. Fairchild..I grew up with his sons and they are still my friend lo these many years..I was small when John left "311" so I was not privy to his wonderful personality because I was just a child in her own world...however, the stories I have heard and my childhood awe of him have stayed with me in my thoughts..such a handsome and kind man..he will be missed by all..my love to Johnnie, Alan and Shirley Rae

Dana Riley-Dees

November 30, 2006

Well, although it was always from a distance, he was my grandfather. And as I grew older I always enjoyed our letters through the mail. He was not close to me; but I knew he loved me in his own way. And he was able to live long enough to see his first great-gransdson graduate from high school. He did say he was blessed to be able to have so many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I will miss him and his letters.

Shirley Ferguson

November 27, 2006

I loved my Uncle Johnnie very much and I will miss him dearly. I will miss him sharing wonderful stories of his life and beautiful memories of my Mother...Now, they will be reunited. I am so sorry for all who loved him as I did.

Larry & Mary Leichtenberg

November 27, 2006

John was a great neighbor and friend. We will miss him very much.

Larry Fidlow

November 25, 2006

While attending party for Christmas remember what wonderful times we had. Good food, good times,good friend.

Barbara Fidlow

November 25, 2006

I remember going to a Christmas party at their house. It was wonderful and he was such a good host.

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