Edward Clark Riley Jr.

Edward Clark Riley, Jr. 

October 1, 1934 – January 24, 2023

Edward Clark Riley, Jr. passed peacefully January 24, 2023 after 88 years of a life well lived. Clark was born October 1, 1934 in Baltimore, Maryland and raised just outside Philadelphia. He studied business at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and received his MBA at Lehigh University. His time in the U.S. Army brought him overseas to Germany for two years where he served in reconnaissance with a tank company.

In 1973, with five kids in tow, Clark and his wife, Judy, moved to Littleton, Colorado where he would work in the early days of computers at the new Johns Manville World Headquarters. His outgoing personality did not lend itself to an office job, so he started his own health insurance sales business. Clark spent the next 40 years calling on customers throughout the city — a career well-suited to his gift of gab, curious nature, and love of meeting people. 

Clark’s biggest job, however, was caring for his family. He spent countless hours supporting his kids’ interests and never missed a sporting event. He encouraged their educational interests and proudly sent all five children to college. His grandchildren revered him as a true Irishman, and affectionately called him by the Irish moniker, “Da.” They shared untold outings to the zoo and museums, whiffle ball games in the backyard, campouts, and storytimes in his easy chair. 

Clark’s get-up-and-go energy and appreciation for nature fueled daily walks on his beloved Highline Canal — always with a dog by his side. He was an avid cyclist, Nordic skier, and outdoorsman. He possessed an insatiable love of travel and exploration. Clark and his equally adventurous wife traveled extensively — visiting an impressive number of countries on six continents, along with nostalgic trips to the Jersey Shore. 

As a history and geography buff, his lifelong thirst for learning spurred him on to read voraciously, peruse three newspapers daily, and, to his grandchildren’s amazement, partake in his evening ritual of rarely missing a Jeopardy question. Clark will also be remembered as a man of faith, a devout Catholic, and someone who strived to give back. He regularly volunteered in food banks and homeless shelters for 40 years. 

Clark is survived by Judy, his cherished wife of 63 years; children — Maureen (Pete); Clark (Bles); Charles (Stephanie); Sean (Carrie); Dennis. He also leaves behind twelve grandchildren and one great-grandson, spanning the country from Alaska to Maine. 

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Parish, 6853 S. Prince St. Littleton, CO 80120 on Monday, February 6 at 10:30 am. Reception to follow. Donations in Clark’s honor may be given to the food bank or homeless shelter of your choice.

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