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03/23/2023 03:07 PMRobert L. “Bob” Risley, 77, a longtime resident of Madison and beloved husband of Suzanne McBride Risley, passed away unexpectedly on March 15.
Bob was born in Pleasantville, New Jersey, on July 18, 1945, the son of the late Andrew L. Risley and Lois Brown Russ. Bob attended Wesley Junior College and then Central Connecticut State University on a football scholarship, graduating in 1968 with a bachelor of business administration. After graduation, he played semi-pro football with the Hartford Knights while teaching marketing at Derby High School. He later went on to enjoy a successful, 40-plus-year career at Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation, retiring as a regional sales manager in 2007. Bob married the love of his life, his wife, Suzanne, on July 27, 1968. They shared 54 wonderful years together, building a life and home in Madison.
Besides his wife, Suzanne, Bob is survived by his son, Bryan Risley and his wife, Shelley of Kansas City, Missouri.; and his daughter, Krista Weaver and her husband, Brian of Clinton. He cherished his three loving granddaughters, Sydney Risley, 14, Audrey, 14, and Ellery Weaver, 12. He is also survived by his brothers, Andrew Risley (Geri) of North Carolina; the late William Risley (Debby) of Florida; and his sister-in-law, Pamela Nelson (Gary) of Florida. He was a proud uncle to many nieces and nephews and will be missed by countless friends.
Bob lived a full and vibrant life, dedicating his time and energy to numerous efforts over the years. He was a strong advocate for Madison youth, serving as a coach for Madison Little League and Madison Youth Football. He was an avid supporter of Daniel Hand High School athletics, watching his son play football and baseball and his daughter play softball, and he gave of his time as the Booster Club president for DHHS football. Bob and Suzanne spent many years traveling with family and friends in the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and South America, and his passions included skiing, cooking, and in later years, golf. He was a long-tenured member of the Madison Winter Club, serving as the House Chairman for many years, and he was a member of the Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club, serving on the Board of Governors. Bob could often be found enjoying a round of golf with his family and friends. He took joy in sharing life’s experiences, always with an unwavering smile, and would be the first in line to help anyone in need.
Calling hours for Bob will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 23, at Swan Funeral Home, 825 Boston Post Road, Madison. A celebration Mass will be held at 11 a.m. the following day, Friday, March 24, at St. Margaret Catholic Church, located at 24 Academy Street, Madison.