Riley Sherwin Cole was born in Bozeman, Montana, to Sherwin Cole and Della Wojtala-Cole, joining his sister Whitney and brother Ramsey. From the beginning, Riley was gentle, creative, and deeply loved by all who knew him.

An avid outdoorsman, Riley lived to ski. Beginning at age three, he spent countless days on the slopes of Bridger Bowl and resorts throughout the West and Canada, skiing with effortless grace and joy. He also loved soccer, football, track, skateboarding, mountain biking, and any adventure that allowed him to move fast and fearlessly. Time spent hiking, camping, fishing, and waterskiing with family in the Gallatin Valley and at Whitefish Lake created lasting memories.

Riley’s artistic talent emerged early. He loved to draw and later developed remarkable skill in painting, ceramics, sculpture, woodworking, and graphic design. His work was distinctive and thoughtful, reflecting both creativity and heart. At the time of his passing, Riley was a junior in Montana State University’s School of Art, majoring in graphic design, having earned acceptance into the program’s prestigious upper division. He was preparing to study abroad in Italy.

Riley’s kindness, sensitivity, humor, and boundless creative spirit will be remembered always. He is deeply missed by his family, friends, and the MSU community.

Rest in peace, Riley. You were loved beyond measure.