Harold Riley

Harold Leslie Riley, 78, of Belle Fourche passed away peacefully Saturday, January 21, 2012 at Belle Fourche Regional Senior Care.

A prayer tribute service will be held Thursday evening, January 26th at 6:30pm at Kline Funeral Chapel in Belle Fourche.

Celebration of Life services will be held Friday, January 27th at 11:00am at the United Methodist Church in Belle Fourche, pastors Martin Earl and Jean Helmer officiating. Inurnment will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

Harold was born on the family ranch north of Belle Fourche to John Thomas (Tom) & Gertie Riley on July 28, 1933. He attended Belle Fourche with the Class of 1952. He served in the US Navy from 1952 to 1956 serving in the Korean War. After serving in the Navy he worked for two years at the missile site tying steel. He then drove truck to the West Coast for two years. After parking the truck he worked at the Colony Truck stop from 1963 to 1971. In 1971 he bought the Sheridan Skelly Truck Stop and the Mint Bar in Sheridan Wyoming. Through the years he expanded his businesses to include the Sturgis Skelly Truck Stop, Harold’s Club, Black Hills Video, Poker Alice Saloon and three ranches; The Hard Times Ranch, The Poor Farm and The Lost Cause Ranch.

Harold was united in marriage to Donna M. Stephens, February 14, 1958. Together they raised three children and spoiled seven grandchildren.

Harold had a great love for playing cards. His second love was telling a story; probably a tall tale. He was very active in the Naja Shrine Clown Patrol. He was also a member of the Masonic Temple, Lion’s Club and the Elk’s Club.

Harold is survived by his children Joni (Randy) Ginsbach; Tom (Mary) Riley, of Belle Fourche and Shari (Larry) Voyles of St. Charles, MO; his grandchildren Laci, Cali and Alic Ginsbach, Candace and Tanner Riley, and Eric and Darin Voyles, and great-grandchildren Angelo, Gavin and Trafton. Brothers Dale (Rosie) Riley of Grand Junction, CO and Glenn (Ardis) Riley of Spearfish along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Harold was preceded in death by his wife Donna, his parents Tom & Gertie, brothers Willard, Gilbert & Buster Riley and an infant sister Irma.

Memorials have been established to the Naja Shrine Children’s Travel Fund and the United Methodist Church.

An online guest book is available at www.klinefuneralchapel.com