Walter L. O'Riley Sr.'s Obituary
Walter L. O’Riley Sr., age 86, of Fort Myers Beach, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025. He was born on July 3, 1938, to Edward H. O'Riley and Hilda J. (Harden) O'Riley in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Walt grew up on the west side of Indianapolis and was a graduate of George Washington High School, Class of 1957. On September 10, 1960, he married the love of his life, Mary E. Neff, and together they raised a family of four sons and one daughter in Brownsburg, Indiana.
A proud Marine Corps veteran, Walt served his country with honor. He worked for many years as a dedicated employee at Schwitzer Corp. until 1985, then continued work at the Waste Water Treatment Plant for the Town of Brownsburg until 1990. In 1990, he and Mary relocated to the Fort Myers, Florida area. He worked for Southwest Florida International Airport in the maintenance department until he retired in 2015.
Walt was known for his hard work ethic and his tough exterior, which hid a much softer side. He loved telling jokes, often times he laughed so hard he could barely tell the punch line. He enjoyed spending time with family, golfing, playing corn hole and going out to eat. He also found joy in shooting guns, mowing grass, and maintaining his truck to perfection. To cool off, he enjoyed a cold Yuengling beer.
He and Mary raised their granddaughter, Chelsea O’Riley, who is often referred to as #6.
Walt is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his children, son Walter L. O’Riley Jr. (Shari), son Kelly O’Riley (Teresa), son Patrick O’Riley (Brenda), daughter Beth O’Riley Cherry (Tim), son Eric O’Riley; #6 granddaughter Chelsea O’Riley (Alex), his dog Jocko, along with grandchildren Shawna, Patrick, Nick, Ashley, Erin, Caitlin, Kalob, Bailey, Michael, Andrew, Dean, Jessie, Alexa, Meghan, Kevin, Katelyn, Austin, Ryan and 19 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents along with his sisters Catherine Schlake and Grace Thomas, brother Edward H. O’Riley Jr. and his granddaughter, Abbegayle Ann Cherry.
A celebration of life will be held for close family and friends at a later date to be determined.
Walter will be greatly missed by all who knew him, near and far. He lived a long glorious life and truly finished strong. SEMPER FI
What’s your fondest memory of Walter?
What’s a lesson you learned from Walter?
Share a story where Walter's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Walter you’ll never forget.
How did Walter make you smile?