Shaun Riley Obituary With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Shaun Riley, age 63, of Pequot Lakes, on June 5, 2025. Shaun left this world far too soon, and he did so with a deep love of family, friends, and a community that cherished his gentle spirit and giving nature. Shaun was known for his huge heartalways kind, always considerate, and never too busy to lend a hand or share a quiet word of encouragement. He had a calm presence a quiet soul, intelligent mind and a witty sense of humor that naturally drew people to him. Whether solving a tricky mechanical problem or offering thoughtful advice, Shaun gave his full attention, never seeking praiseonly wanting to help. He served his country with honor and dedication as a Marine sniper in Special Forces, a role he carried out with courage, humility, and quiet pride. Though he rarely spoke of it, those who knew him well understood the strength and sacrifice behind that chapter of his life. Shaun had a deep passion for automotive painting and restoration, a hobby that grew into a fulfilling career. His eye for detail and steady hand brought classic cars back to life with precision and artistry. He was a true craftsman and could fix just about anything. If it had moving parts, Shaun could make it work better. Shaun was also deeply inventive. Alongside his father he took great interest in trophy fish replicas, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional taxidermy in support of catch-and-release fishing. Their work not only preserved memories for anglers but helped preserve the fish themselvesjust one of the many ways Shaun quietly left the world better than he found it. One of his favorite places was Carlson Hardware, of Nisswa where he spent cherished years combining his problem-solving genius with his love of people. Whether it was helping a neighbor choose the right tool or guiding a tourist through a DIY project, Shaun found joy in being helpful, in connecting, and in making someones day just a little easier. Shauns passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a loyal friend, a beloved Son, Father and Grandfather. He was a constant source of strength and quiet wisdom. His memory will live on in all the love he gave his family, every engine purring smoothly again, in every handcrafted fish replica, and in every story shared over coffee at the hardware store. He is survived by family and friends who will forever carry his spirit in their hearts: his son, Charles Ryan Riley; daughter, Kacey Kay (Brian) Spurrier; mom, Carol Riley (Mark) Neumann; sister, Carmon (Mike) Thelen; grandsons, Roman, Charlie, Chet, and Cassius "Cash" and granddaughters, Emma and Adelle. He was preceded in death by his dad, Charles. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Shaun by helping someone in need, fixing something thats broken, or simply offering a kind wordjust as he would have.