IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Rosemarie

Rosemarie Riley Profile Photo

Riley

June 3, 1934 – December 28, 2025

Obituary

Rosemarie Riley, née Szczarba, 91, of Livonia, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital, surrounded by love, with her grandson John and daughter-in-law Marianne at her side. Born on June 3, 1934, Rosemarie lived a life defined by generosity, kindness, and a deep devotion to family, friends, and animals.

In her final moments, Rosemarie joyfully reminisced about the many memories shared with her loved ones, while family members who could not be present joined by phone to say their final goodbyes. From baseball games across the country and trips to Hawaii, to dancing down hotel hallways, following the smell of freshly baked cookies, and spirited knee-hockey games in the common areas of her apartment, Rosemarie had a gift for creating moments that became lifelong memories.

Rosemarie spent most of her professional career as an executive secretary at Ford Credit, where she was known for her dedication and professionalism.

Creative and active throughout her life, Rosemarie enjoyed woodworking and took pride in carving beautiful figures that she passed along to loved ones. She was an avid tennis fan, especially of Serena Williams, and enjoyed attending matches in New Haven. A natural athlete, she excelled at bowling and softball and was often chosen first, even ahead of her equally talented brother, Bob, whom she loved dearly. She also loved to travel and embraced life with enthusiasm and joy.

An animal lover at heart, Rosemarie shared her life with many beloved dogs and cats over the years. Above all else, she was genuinely kind, remembered by those who knew her as one of the kindest people they had ever met.

Rosemarie was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Riley; her daughter, Julie Riley; her son, David Riley; her brother, Robert Szczarba; and her nephew's wife, Susan Szczarba.

She is survived by her grandchildren, John and Steve Riley (Ashley); her daughter-in-law, Marianne Riley; her sister-in-law, Arlene Szczarba; and her nephew and niece, Gary and Cheryl Szczarba (Bart).

Per Rosemarie's wishes, she will be cremated, and her ashes will be placed in a niche at Glen Eden Lutheran Memorial Park in Livonia, Michigan, alongside her husband Robert and daughter Julie. A Mass will be said in her honor at Sacred Heart Church in Dearborn, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Michigan Humane, to pass forward the joy Rose found in caring for animals.

May Rosemarie's memory live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Rosemarie Riley, please visit our flower store.

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