Lynne Riley

Lynne Riley

January 25, 1939 - September 22, 2023

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Obituary

Lynne Walker Riley, (Bear) age 84, passed away on Friday, September 22, 2023. She was born on January 25, 1939, to Neal and Elizabeth Walker in Toledo, Ohio. Few have the strength of character to guide numerous students, children and loved ones through the hard times in life, while also enjoying their successes and comforting them when life does not seem fair. Bear raised 4 girls under the age of five and then took on the challenge of raising a grandchild. That alone would be worthy of remembrance. However, Bears’s passion for teaching was her purpose for being. She taught for 40+ years in private schools across the United States, challenging her students to work hard often using her fun sense of humor. Her “math game” will live in the hearts of those who experienced the same.

In all Bear had one mantra she lived by and gave freely. The Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have done to you.” Bear will be missed by many. We carry her spirit close to our heart. She is survived by her husband John, whom she was married to for over 60 years. Additionally, is survived by her children, Karyn (Larry) Dearth; Randi (Vincent Antolini), Lisa (Don) Zukowski; grandchildren, Jonathan (Darcy) Riley, Lauryn Riley, Matthew Zukowski, Jake Dearth; son-in-law- Jon Snowden and many other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her daughter, Robin Snowden.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 209 South St, Waunakee. A visitation will be held just before 10:30 AM until the time of service at church.

A lunch will follow at Lisa’s home.

In lieu of flowers family would like donations to go to the Alzheimer's Association. https://act.alz.org/donate

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N Sherman Ave

608-249-8257

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Katie (Geishirt) Strong
Other •
Bear was my teacher in Waunakee for 4th grade, and so so beloved! I LOVED the math games--they were the best part of every week. That and the math sheets with all the coloring for her students to do. All made by hand and copied. After she retired, we became pen pals once she moved back out to California for many years, always talking about her dogs, walks, and, of course, our favorite school bus driver Uncle John! She helped shape so many students throughout the years--each loving her for her stern but incredibly warm heart. I can still picture both her laugh and smile in my mind. Sending love to the family, especially Uncle John <3 Thank you for sharing her with us!
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Susan Spinelli
Other •
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Bear. She was a joy to work with at St. John's School. Bear had such a youthful spirit, a love for all of her students, and an incredible wealth of knowledge. I am so fortunate to have had her as a colleague and friend! Bear will be missed by all. My sincere condolences go out to John and their family.
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Chad Landes
Other •
My sincerest condolences to John and the entire Riley family. You see Mrs. Riley was more then a teacher to me. She impacted my life in a way I am forever grateful for and indebted to. Entering 4th grade I was the kid who got passed on and passed over. I didn't hold myself with much regard mostly because that's how everyone else had portrayed me. When you are that young you tend to believe the opinions of others more then you should. Mrs. Riley gave me a blank slate and a fresh start. Not only that, she actually believed in me. Every student has a teacher that changed the trajectory of their life for the better and that was Mrs. Riley. As I pen this memory I want all of her family and loved ones to know how much she impacted me and blessed I am to have had her not only as a teacher but in my life. She will forever hold place inside my heart and my sincerest condolences to the family. She was an absolute light for me in a time a of darkness. Thoughts and Prayers Chad Landes
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Crystal Ziegler
Other •
One of my absolute most memorable teachers. I truly feel like I learned more in 4th grade than any other year. An amazing attribute to be able to push students intensely and also be so respected and adored. Thank you Mrs. Riley!

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