Michael Patrick Riley of Auburn, Washington, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025. He was 81.

Michael was born in Alameda, California to Roy and Dolores Riley, the firstborn of four children. He and his two younger brothers grew up together in San Francisco before moving across the bridge to San Rafael where he graduated from Terra Linda High School. Immediately after graduation, he enlisted in the Navy, proudly serving on the USS Ticonderoga. After leaving the Navy, Michael attended Cal State Hayward where he earned a BA in sociology. In 1975, his family moved to Anchorage. It took some convincing, but Michael eventually followed. After a time, he fell in love with Alaska and made it his home.

In the late 1980s, Michael left Alaska for a time to attend school in Oregon. He earned his MSW at Portland State University in 1992, then became licensed as a clinical social worker in the state of Alaska shortly thereafter. Michael worked for many years as a social worker for various agencies and non-profits, including the State of Alaska and the Veterans Administration. He left Alaska several times over the years, but, like most people, he would miss it and move back.

After retiring, Michael moved to Washington and eventually settled in Auburn.

Michael is predeceased by his parents; his younger brothers Timothy Riley and Terrance Riley: and his son, Anthony Riley. He is survived by his son, Tomás Riley (Jolene Treanor); grandsons Mahcic and Serafin Riley-Hernandez; and his sister, Ellie Riley.

An inurnment service will be had at Tahoma National Cemetery on Thursday, October 10, 2025 at 12:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Providence Elder Place or to St. Barbara Church in Black Diamond.