Robert L. Riley

SIOUX CITY -- Robert Leland Riley, 85, of Crescent, Iowa, formerly of Sioux City, passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at Woodlands Rehabilitation Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa, following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

No services are planned at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel. Condolences may be sent online to www.meyerbroschapels.com.

Robert was born Oct. 17, 1924, in Woodbine, Iowa, the son of Harlan and Violet (Loder) Riley. He graduated from Woodbine High School. He entered the U.S. Navy in 1942. He was a member of the Navy boxing team and sailed the seven seas during war time.

He married Helen Gleason on July 11, 1948, in Dakota City. They lived in Sioux City and Yankton, S.D., while he was employed with Wilson Trailer Company. He moved to Crescent, Iowa in May 2008, where he lived with his children.

He was a 50-year member of Whitfield United Methodist Church, where he participated in the Men's Club and other church activities. He participated and held the Golden Gloves championship from 1939 through 1942. He enjoyed bowling, woodworking, was an avid cribbage player and enjoyed traveling with friends.

Survivors include his daughter, Linda and her husband, Gary Damrau, of Crescent, Iowa; a sister, Bonnie and her husband, Martin Smith, of Woodbine; special grandchildren, Tara and Chloe Smith of Sioux City; and the staff and friends in the Memory Unit at Woodlands Rehab Center in Council Bluffs.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Helen Riley; a twin brother, William Riley; a sister, Patricia Brooks; and a grandson, Riley Damrau.

The family requests all memorials be directed to Hospice with Heart, 300 West Broadway 114, Council Bluffs, IA. 51503.