Denise Rikley (née Burgess), of Pembroke, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025. She was the loving wife of the late Don Rikley.
Beloved mother of Christine (Terry), Anne, and Kevin (Marg). Proud grandmother to Kaitlyn (Ansu), Erik (Rhiannon), James, Jake, Quinn, and Jackson.
Dear sister to Lois (Bob), and predeceased by Carole (Charlie), and Neil (Joan).
When first married, Denise worked as a medical secretary in Scarborough. She and Don moved to Campbellford, Renfrew, and settled in Pembroke in 1969. She was not only a devoted wife and mother but also an outstanding homemaker—managing household finances, chauffeuring children, and always “being there.”
Denise gave back to her community through volunteer work with The Alexandria Club, Holy Trinity Church bazaars, and Meals on Wheels.
She enjoyed a wide range of activities: playing bridge, skiing, knitting, curling, hiking, canoeing, and badminton. She especially loved spending summers at the cottage, becoming an accomplished gardener. Her passion for gardening continued at her home on Rivercrest Drive, where she tended to a beautiful garden along the Muskrat River.
In later years, Denise and Don resided at Riverview Heights Retirement Residence, where they enjoyed the company of staff, servers, and volunteers who provided exceptional care and kindness.
The family will receive friends at Malcolm, Deavitt & Binhammer Funeral Home, 141 Renfrew St., Pembroke on Saturday, June 21, 2025 for memorial visiting from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Fellowship, light refreshments, and interment in Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery will follow.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, Heart & Stroke Foundation, or Alzheimer Society of Canada would be appreciated.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Malcolm, Deavitt & Binhammer Funeral Home.
