In Memory of Robert “Bob” Ward Risley

Obituary

Robert “Bob” Ward Risley

Bob Risley, 75, of New Hartford, New York, passed away peacefully after a brief and courageous battle with cancer, with family and friends by his side.

Bob was born February 5, 1951, in New Hartford, New York, to Floyd and Lena Ward Risley. He attended New Hartford schools and went on to study at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, where he met his late, former wife and lifelong friend, Patty Burke. He graduated in 1973 and was a proud member of Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE). There, he made lasting connections and enjoyed decades of annual fishing trips and close friendships with his fraternity brothers.

Bob had a deep knowledge of and love for New York State, especially the land and community that shaped him. His family’s roots on their property spanned more than 150 years, a legacy he honored through the care he gave to his home and gardens.

He was a caring father and a true friend to his three children and two sons-in-law: Madeline (Billy) Fenton (Old Forge), Mike Risley (Florida), and Meg (Phil) Cernera (California). Bob especially treasured his time spent in Old Forge, his travels to visit his children around the country and abroad, and the opportunity to work construction alongside his son, Mike.

He was a present and much-loved grandfather, a “Pop,” “Grampy,” and “Bob-Dad,” to eight grandchildren: Tyler and Nolan Fenton; Connor Hudon; Myla, Jax, Ty, and Kaz Risley; and Oscar Cernera. He took great pride in their lives, following their sports and pursuits with genuine interest and love.

Bob was closely connected with his two sisters, Jacqui Wiggins (New Hartford) and Sharon Halligan (Sauquoit), and his late cousins, Martha (John) Hoffman and Elaine Risley. He was an engaged uncle and great-uncle to many nieces and nephews, including Chris Bowman (Connecticut), Heather (Chris) Freeman (Nantucket), Dane Halligan (Watertown), and Lisa (Derek) Redder (Rhode Island), and their children.

In the past decade, Bob’s life was especially enriched by a close circle of adventure friends: Anne Stuhlman, Barb Felice, Julie Chanatry, and others. Together they traveled throughout Europe, Scandinavia, Canada, the Pacific Northwest and New York State, and their companionship remained steadfast through his final months.

Bob was a cherished member of the Utica Curling Club community for over six decades, serving as both a champion curler and a dedicated leader, including time as Club President. His steady role and commitment there will be deeply missed.

Bob lived a full life, with deep local roots, enduring friendships and community, and a spirit of humility and openness. His patient, easygoing presence and encyclopedic knowledge will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him. He was a thoughtful, walking MapQuest, always ready with directions and stories for anyone lucky enough to chat with or travel with him. “Riz” was a jack of all trades and one of a kind.

In lieu of flowers, Bob’s family would like to share his affinity for Abraham House in Rome, New York, which showed incredible compassion and care for Bob and his children during the loss of their mother, and Bob donated to Abraham House each Christmas season. The mission of Spring Farm CARES in Clinton was also near and dear to Bob’s heart, reflecting his deep appreciation and direct care for animals and nature.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Utica Curling Club; all are welcome. A later gathering to honor his ashes will take place in the Adirondacks.

Please join his family on Saturday, May 16 from 2-5pm at the Utica Curling Club in Whitesboro. A short memorial service will be held during the reception at 3pm. All are invited at any time.

Online messages of sympathy may be left at: www.fwefh.com

Arrangements are in  the care of Friedel Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford