Michael Lynwood Rilee

Michael Lynwood Rilee peacefully departed at 1:22 AM on September 20, 2025, with his wife of 59 years, Joanne Rowen, surviving him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ella and Arthur Rilee, and his son, Robert Lynwood Rilee. A graduate of West Point High School and Emory and Henry College, he served four years in the U.S. Navy SEABEES. He retired from Dominion Power after twenty-six years of service, then worked for the Virginia Electric Co-Op following his retirement. He's a gearhead with many interests, including travel, woodworking, mechanical projects, reading, historical research, watching old movies, golf, car racing, Redskins football, and Yankee baseball on TV. But most of all, he loves spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by two sons, Michael Lee (and wife Monica) and William Joseph "Joe" (and wife Rachel), as well as his only and favorite daughter, Donna deShields (and partner Nicholas de Kanter). 

He left West Point, but West Point never left him.

Michael wished to be remembered not with a service, but through support for a cause close to his heart. To celebrate his life and legacy, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made in his name to I AM ALS. Your generous contribution helps I AM ALS provide essential resources and accelerate the search for effective treatments and a cure.