RILEY JAMES VAN BERGEN

March 6, 2025

Riley James Van Bergen of Kincardine, died peacefully, Thursday, March 6, 2025, in the loving arms of his parents, Mary and Cory, moments before surrounded by his most precious sister, Chelsey, grandparents, family and friends who will all deeply miss him. He was 10 years old. Predeceased by his two special and loving grandmas, Mary Van Bergen and Barbara Metcalfe. Riley loved gymnastics, jujitsu, baseball, paddle-boarding, beach days, snowboarding, family vacations, camping in the backyard, basement sleepovers, being tickled by his dad, his besties, Jaxon and Lakelan, going to Circle K, playing Fortnite with his friends, archery, art, and dance parties. He enjoyed woodworking, tinkering in the garage and taking things apart to see how things worked. Riley was a little entrepreneur and loved working at the Monday Market with the Ruetzes, and had a little side business mowing lawns and snow-blowing - anything to make a buck to buy electronics and save money for his red truck. He attended Elgin Market Public School in Kincardine, and was a leader who was loved by his peers and staff. Everyone at school had a connection with him. Riley had a passion for music and loved playing the saxophone. He will be remembered for his kindness and helpful nature, and his commitment to the environment. He had a huge zest for life and a pure spirit. We will miss his smiling face, snuggly hugs, kissing his cheek, his infectious laugh and his beautiful big brown eyes. Riley’s loss is profound for his school community, neighbours, friends, grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles but mostly, his parents and dear sister and best friend, Chelsey. Fly high and ride those waves buddy. His recent favourite quote: “What you think, you become; what you feel, you attract; what you imagine, you create.” - Buddha. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Kincardine Pavilion, 156 Durham Street, Kincardine, Sunday, March 30, 2025, from 12-4 p.m., with words of remembrance at 2 p.m. Final resting place, Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Cemetery, Mildmay, at a later date. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Kincardine and Community Health Care Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities – Southwestern Ontario (London), or Elgin Market Public School (music program, outdoor learning space or playground equipment), would be appreciated. Those wishing to support Riley’s family directly, may contact the funeral home. Portrait and memorial on-line at www.daveylinklaterfuneralhome.com.