Riley J. Ely, 20, of Kellogg, died Thursday, June 8, 2017, in rural Poweshiek County north of Malcom of injuries received in an automobile accident. Due to extended delays at the Iowa State Medical Examiner's Office, Riley's services are pending until the week of June 19.
Riley Jackson Ely was born the son of Laurel and Dee Dee Ely on July 9, 1996, in Grinnell. He was raised in Grinnell and graduated from Grinnell High School with the Class of 2014. He attended Marshalltown Community College, where he graduated as a manufacturing welding practitioner. Riley was employed at HW Brand in Grinnell.
Riley loved to be outdoors fishing, riding dirt bikes, hunting, and skateboarding. He spent many hours bowling with his family and friends. Riley loved to work on trucks with his little brother, Evan, and take the dogs on long rides. He took immense pride in his job and loved what he did. Riley will be remembered for being a "wild child" with his big brother Jordan, his contagious laugh, and the beautiful smile that was always on his face. He never left home or hung up the phone without saying, "I love you." His brothers will remember the many wrestling matches that took place in the living room. Riley was a great friend and enjoyed being a "big brother" to many. He always made any situation more fun. Riley was genuine, adventurous, loyal, and loving to his family and friends. We will carry Riley's laughter and sense of humor in our hearts forever.
Riley is survived by his parents, Laurel and Dee Dee Ely of rural Kellogg; his brothers, Jordan (Hope) Ely of Grinnell and Evan Ely of Kellogg; his grandfather, Leroy Blom of rural Grinnell; aunts and uncles, Greg Blom of rural Grinnell, Phyllis Kephart of New Sharon, Lisa (Ken) Ellenson of Amana, and Warren Blom of rural Grinnell.
He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Georgie Ely and Janice Blom; and uncle, Lane Kephart.
