Michael Patrick Riley

Mike was born on February 16, 1948, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Stanley and Margaret (Gillis) Riley. He was raised in Wilmington.

Following in his father’s footsteps, a submariner in World War II, Mike enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1966. He served honorably in the Navy for nearly 27 years, retiring as a Cryptologic Technician Collection Master Chief Petty Officer in 1993. During his military career, he earned two bachelor’s and two master’s degrees. Mike continued to serve his country after retiring from the Navy by working as a civilian for the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training for over a decade.

He met the love of his life, Renate Zachert, while stationed in Germany. They were married in 1969 and were inseparable until her death in 2018.

He and Renate were stationed around the globe and enjoyed living abroad. Fondly remembering Pensacola from his training days at Corry Station, they retired there after his Navy service. Despite his time away, he remained a fan of Boston-area sports teams, particularly the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.

Mike was known for his giving nature. He was a prolific reader, an avid golfer, and enjoyed a good cigar and glass of wine, especially with friends. He was never without a four-legged friend, or two.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Stanley; and beloved wife, Renate.

He is survived by his brother, William (Irene); sisters, Margaret “Peggy” O’Rourke, Kathy Riley, and Judy (Bob) Grundy; his godson, Arlen (Staci) Lancaster; Renate’s siblings, Monika Pohl, Paul Zachert, Anja Zachert, Brigit Oestreich, and Christa Thomas; many nieces, and nephews in the United States and Germany who adored him; and a god-granddaughter who will miss her Opa.

A visitation will be held between 8:30-10:30 AM on Friday, December 13, 2004, at Oak Lawn Funeral Home, followed by a burial with military honors at 11AM. He will be interred at Barrancas National Cemetery beside Renate.

A visitation for Michael will be held Friday, December 13, 2024 from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Oak Lawn Funeral Home, 619 New Warrington Road, Pensacola, FL 32506. Following the visitation will be a committal service from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Barrancas National Cemetery, 1 Cemetery Rd, Pensacola, FL 32508.