Douglas John Riley
Doug Riley went to be with his Lord and Savior at Harmony at Five Forks in Simpsonville on June 11, 2026. He was born February 9, 1942 in Providence, Rhode Island to James and Hazel Riley. He grew up in Riverside, Rhode Island. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Coast Guard. During his entire enlistment he was stationed in Alaska where he developed a love and appreciation for the state. Following graduation, he attended the University of Alaska in Fairbanks, Alaska, obtaining a degree in Wildlife Management. While attending the U of A he met and fell in love with his future wife, Katherine Kleinbach. They were married on May 27, 1967. Their love story blossomed, leading to a 59-year marriage and the creation of a loving family: son, John (Penny) Riley; daughter, Heather (Ralph) Gleaton; and five cherished grandchildren, Josh, RJ, Michael, Jon, and Riley. Doug is also survived by his loving sister, Phyllis Laporte; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Doug’s love for the outdoors impacted his career choice; he spent his entire career with the National Park Service, including assignments at Everglades, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, Glacier Bay, Nez Pierce and finally Delaware Water Gap.
Following his retirement, he moved to Greenville, SC to be closer to his daughter and her family.
An avid outdoorsman and fisherman (he tied his own flies), Doug was known for his sense of humor, love of nature, thoughtfulness, and his love and devotion to his family.
The Celebration of Life and Memorial Service for Mr. Riley will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 4:00 pm in the Heritage Chapel at Cannon Byrd Funeral Home – Simpsonville, 313 N. Main St, Simpsonville, SC 29681. His cremated remains will be spread over his beloved Rocky Mountains.
The family has requested no flowers please, and that donations be made in Mr. Riley’s honor to the National Parks Foundation at www.nationalparks.org.
Dear Katherine, I am so sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of you and Doug, and sending my condolences to you and your family.
Nat
Thoughts and prayers for you and your family! Tricha Tapio
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
What a beautiful summary of a delightful and complex gentleman! Doug was devoted to his family and the world of nature, leaving behind a precious legacy.
Katherine, John, Heather and all of your family.
We are thinking of you all as you say good bye to your Husband, Father, Brother and Grandfather.
We have Fond Memories of the
times we spent with him.
Our Love and Prayers have been with you all this week and will continue as you grieve for a Special
Man.
Love to you all.
Mary and Pam
Why is it after they are gone we learn so much more about them. Doug “rocket red squirrel” will always be a pleasant memory in my NPS career.
Rest in Peace, Buddy
Bob Van Nortwick
Sending Warm and Loving Thoughts for Peace, Comfort, and Strength.
Barb and Bob Van Nortwick
I remember Doug as a dedicated and hard working Park Ranger. He had a great knowledge of technical rock climbing and wildland fire fighting. He was often name-requested to assist with wildfires in the West.
I enjoyed fishing with him from his boat in the Delaware River. He was a great guy.
Lot’s of great memories of fun ranger times together at the Gap. Doug could always be relied on to bring a laugh and liven things up! He made a difference.
Doug thank you for all your guidance wisdom that you passed along to the Wildland Firefighters in New Jersey. Rest in peace.