Obit -- Neil Riordan

Cornelius C. "Neil" Riordan, 66, of Youngstown, passed away at home on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2011, after a brief illness. He was born in Niagara Falls, the only son of the late Cornelius (Connie) and Kathleen Riordan.

Riordan was deeply committed to public service, serving for the last 10 years as the mayor of Youngstown and as village trustee for the 22 years prior. He cared deeply for the village and worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all Youngstown residents.

During his tenure in office, he was responsible of the creation of the Friday Night Summer Concert Series in Falkner Park and instrumental in fundraising; the transformation of the South Dock Waterfront Park on Water Street; and the revitalization of the village parks and business district. He believed strongly in the importance of leading by example to help people and serve the community. In his own words, "Public service is not politics, and we a very proud of that here. When people call, you respond."

In addition to his position as mayor, Riordan also served as vice president of sales and marketing for Viatran Corporation in Wheatfield for the past 30 years. Prior to that, he spent 15 years as national sales manager for Moore Business Forms.

Neil is survived by his wife, Dorothy "Dotty"; his son Christopher (wife, Jodee); his son Michael; his daughter Suzanne (husband, Mark); and by his grandchildren: Sarah, Christopher, Nicholas and Michael.

A memorial will be held at the Youngstown Village Center, 240 Lockport St., on Saturday, Oct. 8, at 1 p.m. Churches in Youngstown will provide parking for visitors attending the service.

Starting at 11:45 a.m., designated parking will be available at St. John's Lutheran Church, 420 Lockport St.; St. Bernard's R.C. Church, 218 Hinman St.; and First Presbyterian Church of Youngstown, 100 Church St. Shuttle transit will be available from those locations to the service. Youngstown Police and fire police members from Youngstown Volunteer Fire Co. will coordinate traffic.

Donations may be made to the Village of Youngstown, c/o Falkner Park Concert Series, P.O. Box 168, Youngstown, NY 14174.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hardison Funeral Home.