The Endless Further – A Tribute

David RileyMy dear pen-pal and friend, David Riley, passed from this life Sept. 7, 2018. David ran a buddhist blog The Endless Further , through which we first came into contact several years prior to his passing. The blog vanished a short time after he passed, but I now host a copy of it here:

The Endless Further Buddhist Blog – David Riley

David’s writing’s were instrumental in my decision to leave the SGI and look for a quieter, more contemplative path in Zen.

David was the real deal – or as close as a layman can get to leading an enlightened life. In particular, as he experienced the slow battle of attrition going on in his body, his mind remained as sharp and creative as ever. While he was often in great pain, he continued to write articles to encourage reflection on the nature of being right up to the end (although sadly, I have been unable to recover his most recent writings)

Here is his obituary in the Whidbey News-Times:

David M. Riley was born in Wichita, Kan. to Russell R. and Lulu E. Riley. His childhood was spent following his father’s career with Kiewit Corporation from Wichita to Omaha, Neb. and graduating high school in New Orleans, La. David is preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother Hazel M. Riley; and his brother Brian. He is survived by his nephew Russell S. Riley and sister-in-law Susan Aschinger, Omaha, Neb.; his stepbrothers Bill Frost (Suzie), Oak Harbor; Ronald Frost, Camas; and David Frost (Pam), Tacoma; and stepsister Sue Hizon (Ron), Lacey, Wash.; and many nieces and nephews.

David lived a curious life going in many directions, always looking to fill his creative nature. He began his professional life in Omaha as a rock DJ, known as “Dirty Dave Riley.” He moved to Los Angeles in the early 80s, working in hotels, but to pursue his more creative side, he began work in a greeting card company; and also became a website developer; he was a published poet and story writer and a talented musician.

He was very involved with Soka Gakkai International World Peace Buddhist Organization. He received certification as a Buddhist teacher and meditation instructor. As his health issues took their toll, he became home bound but kept busy with his web blogs, The Endless Further, listening to music and watching classic movies. He tried to make every day a journey, and the journey itself was his home. David was fortunate to have the care and support of his parents, stepbrothers and hospice caregivers in making his remaining life journey comfortable.

David’s journey in this life ended Sept. 7, 2018. He will be interred with his parents in Sunnyside Cemetery, Coupeville. As David requested, there will be no memorial service.

Gone, Gone, Gone Beyond, Gone Far Beyond, Be Set Upon Awakening

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