Riley Cameron Marz was born December 26, 2010, in Orem, Utah, to Cameron William Marz and Sarah Lynn Young. His first nine years were spent in Lehi, Utah, sharing time between his mother and father, and as most little boys do, running around full of energy and curiosity. He was the firstborn child, and you know what they say about the firstborn child? They are independent, intelligent, strong-willed, and occasionally stubborn. He fit that role from the very beginning and embraced it.

Riley loved and enjoyed many things growing up, such as playing drums, swimming, playing with his siblings, listening to metal music, and watching Marvel and Disney movies. Riley even played soccer, chasing butterflies more than the soccer ball but still running and ensuring everyone was having a good time, which brought him joy.

Several years later, Riley moved to West Valley, Utah, with his dad, Cameron, and his beloved dachshund, Gertie. He attended Granger Elementary as well as Eaglecrest Elementary and loved school, making many friends during his 4th-grade year. Riley was a swift learner, not only in school but in everything he did. He had a talent for assembling Legos quickly and was competitive in everything he participated in. He especially loved playing online games, frequently battling his cousins in an online match. He was often in the company of his cousins, James, Max, and Sophie. They, among all his cousins, shared his passion for competitive gaming, Legos, Kit Kats, and even pizza.

In September 2021, Riley moved back to Lehi with Cameron to stay with his grandparents, Jeff and Elaine. It was then that Riley received his cancer diagnosis, and his arduous journey began.

Riley waged a brave battle against Leukemia. Despite the circumstances, he defied the odds countless times and amazed staff and family members with courage, humor, and wit. Throughout this journey, one thing remained constant: the love and care of his father. Cameron had many roles during this time. He is not only a wonderful father, but he was also Riley's Lego companion, video game teammate, and very best friend. They were two peas in a pod, the best buddies who comforted each other in dark times and celebrated the good times and small wins. Cameron became his full-time caregiver and gave up everything to be by his side every step of the way.

Despite Riley's brave fight with the best care, cancer took over his body on September 11, 2022.

"There are some who bring a great light to the world, that even after they have gone, the light remains." Riley will remain our brave and powerful shining light forever.

Riley is survived by his parents, Cameron and Sarah; brother, Dash, and sister, Stormi. Riley also leaves behind his paternal grandparents, Jeff ("papa") and Elaine ("nanny"); maternal grandparents, Patricia and David Young; twenty-one aunts and uncles, and twenty-three cousins who love and adore him.

We want to thank the oncology and ICU staff at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City for their unwavering support and for joining us in this fight. We are forever grateful for their efforts and kindness during this difficult time.

A viewing will be held Saturday September 17, 2022 from 9:30-10:45 at Wing Mortuary, 118 E Main St. Lehi, UT. Funeral services will follow at 11:00.