On May 7th, 2025, we lost our beloved daughter, sister and aunt, Mary Elaine Riley. Mary was born on August 20th, 1943, in Mt. Ida, Wisconsin to Dan and Evelyn Riley. Mary grew up on a farm in Wisconsin with her 5 siblings. Mary had very fond memories of her childhood and took an interest in learning about farming, crops and animals her entire life.
Mary attended college at the University of Wisconsin (Madison) and graduated with a degree in Physical Therapy in 1965. After graduation she moved to Salt Lake City. She worked as a physical therapist at the University of Utah for several years. While she was there she met Earl Shields. She and Earl became fast friends. When Earl left the U to start his own business, Mary followed him. She worked at Shield’s Orthopedics for over forty years.
Mary loved to travel and went on many incredible adventures with her niece Carol. Together they explored Spain, Italy, Portugal, Morocco, Hungary, Greece, Austria and Nova Scotia. Traveling and learning about other cultures and countries fed Mary’s sharp mind and curiosity. She would return home to share stories of the incredible times she had on her travels.
To know Mary was to love her. She was kind and patient and never had a bad word to say about anyone. She had several health challenges, but she never complained. She had a quiet strength about her. Mary had a wonderful sense of humor and a gentle demeanor. She was a loyal friend, and a stalwart cheerleader for all of her nieces and nephews. Mary was there for birthdays, Christmas, play performances and anything else her beloved family were participating in, whether it was in Salt Lake or in Wisconsin. Mary adored her family and they adored her. Mary was a special person, and she will be sorely missed.
Mary is survived by her brothers Steve (Janet), and Dan (Lucille), and numerous loving nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her dearest friends Barbara and Earl Shields and her kitty Lily She is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Bob and Mark and her sister Barbara.
There will be a celebration of life for this incredible lady on Friday, May 9th from 6-8 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East Millcreek. Guests are encouraged to use the parking and entrance on the north side of the building.
Mary will be laid to rest in Lancaster, Wisconsin on Saturday May 17th. There will be a graveside service prior to the interment.
