Born in Lowell on Feb. 16, 1954, he was a son of the late Louis D. and Ethel (Baldwin) Riel. He attended local schools, including the Lowell Vocational School.He worked as a mechanic for most of his life, at Geoffroy's Garage in Cupples Square and Chappy's Garage, also in Lowell. He also worked at Everbest Chickens as a laborer and driver for many years.Mr. Riel was part of the Baldwin and Riel racing teams and won many races in the stock car and spectator divisions. He was well known at the Hudson Star and Lee Raceways, both in New Hampshire.He is survived by two daughters, Jenna Riel and Dessire Plante, both of Lowell; two sons, Wayne Riel and Joey Plante, both of Lowell; three sisters, Lois Palmer, Linda Ianucci and Deborah Riel, all of Lowell; four brothers, David "Louie" Riel of Lowell, Warren Riel of Billerica, Robert Riel of Chelmsford, and Paul Riel and his companion, Mary Thambash, of Lowell, with whom he lived; as well as many nieces and nephews.