Tributes pour in for ‘absolute legend’ who ran specialist garage for …
Tributes have been pouring in for an ‘absolute legend’ who ran a specialist Bristol garage for decades. ‘Everyone knew’ Steve Riley for his funny sense of humour and kind actions. The 71-year-old sadly passed away after being diagnosed with cancer that had spread across his body. There was only eight weeks between his shock diagnosis and death.
His family said they have been overwhelmed by how much the community loved him, with more than 600 people sending their condolences. Steve was best known for running Piston Broke Engineering in east Bristol, but people travelled all over the city for his help on engine issues. You may also want to read: Mayor in row with ACORN over Barton House Holiday Inn fracas[2]
Partner Vivienne said he was a truly ‘unique’ man. She told Bristol Live: “Everybody loved him. He always had something funny to say, he was a very unique man.
“We still can’t believe all this happening. We only had eight weeks before his death. Even then he kept working – he was very frail by the end.
“We can’t believe how many people have been in touch.
300 people say they are going to come to his funeral. We want it to be a big celebration of his life.”
Steve with his family (Image: Handout)
Announcing the sad news on social media, a spokesperson from Ashley Engines said: “It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Steve Riley (whizz) of Piston Broke Engineering, formally college motors, R k Motors, foreman at Ashley Auto’s this afternoon, he was an absolute gentleman and great friend of ours and many others in the motor trade in Bristol, his knowledge in motorcycle engines and machining will be greatly missed in the trade the length of the UK. RIP Stevie.”
Under the post, scores of people said how much they loved him. One said: “So sad to hear this, Steve was an engineering wizard, top bloke, great character and always a pleasure to have done business with in the motorcycle trade. ” Another wrote: “This man is the most loved one out hear.
The times he’s got me out of completely sticky situations and was still having work done by him this year.” His brother also wrote in the comments: “Tremendous loss of a lovely brother. Lots of good memories.
Glad to have had him as my brother. Rest in peace mate.” Kevin Gamlin and Ryan Hughes owners of Air Balloon Road Garage said they have known Stevie most of their lives.
They said: “A true gentleman and absolute legend and brilliant engineer , will be sadly missed.”
The funeral will take place on Friday, December 15 at 11:15am at Canford Crematorium Bristol, everyone is welcome.
References
- ^ Car skids into crowd of spectators at Bristol car meet leaving woman seriously injured (www.bristolpost.co.uk)
- ^ Mayor in row with ACORN over Barton House Holiday Inn fracas (www.bristolpost.co.uk)