David Eugene Riney

David Eugene Riney was surrounded by loved ones as he journeyed to his Heavenly home on Thursday August 8, 2024, at the age of 80. He was born in Merkel to David Leroy Riney and Bernie Opal Dean Riney on April 21, 1944.

David grew up on his family's farm in Mulberry Canyon between Riney Peak and Castle Peak. His family worshipped  at Pioneer Methodist. A lifelong Merkel Badger, he graduated from Merkel High School in 1962. While in school, he met Donna Rutledge who became his best friend and loving wife. They were married at the Merkel Church of Christ on July 10, 1964. David and Donna enjoyed a long life together caring for their family, raising them as members of the Merkel Church of Christ.

David was a loving and devoted husband, daddy, son, brother, and grandfather “Babo” and friend, who will be greatly missed. He established strong bonds with many of his extended family members. He proudly shared his family heritage with his children and grandchildren and passed down his connections to Mulberry Canyon, where he learned many lifelong skills. He enjoyed building furniture and working on vehicles in his shop. He could cook, sew, and even built houses. He took pride in a job well done. He worked at WTU/AEP as a meter reader, lineman, crew chief, and supervisor for around 38 years before retiring in 2002 to enjoy time at home with his family.
David was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Donna, granddaughter Kenli, and other beloved family members.
Left to cherish his memory are daughter Kelly Riney Campbell, son Kevin Riney and wife Marjohn, granddaughter Kelci Campbell and her fiancé Jacob Rogers. He also leaves behind a brother Jack Riney and wife Gwen, a sister-in-law Linda Rutledge, as well as treasured nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Pallbearers will be Jack Riney, Gerald Richie, Terry Richie, Larry Riney, Pete Rutledge, Kane Kellam, Spencer Scott, and Ricky Minze. Honorary pallbearers will be Jim Bob Williams, James Medley, Kaden Kellam, Shae Garrett, Garin Walters, and Todd Walters.
Visitation will be at Starbuck Funeral Home Chapel from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, August 15, 2024. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Merkel.
The family of David Riney wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Kennedy Financial Services, his doctors, nurses and caretakers, Lyndale Memory Care, Hendrick Hospice Care, and the Merkel Church of Christ.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David Eugene Riney, please visit our floral store.