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Russell Riseman Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Russell Riseman
Sponsored by The Riseman Family.
Nidia Rodriguez-Leeds
March 27, 2025
Every once in awhile you jump into my head and I pray for your family knowing Abba will keep them protected. Thank you for your joy and unconditional love. Miss you friend.
isabella riseman
December 9, 2021
Dad, starting off I should not be writing a condolence for my father at such a young age. Although reading through the many many people that have left you messages, have comforted me in my feelings around this. I miss you every day. I have been told so much about you over the years. when I look in the mirror i see you! I've waited many years for the day USR, or Papa says, "you look so much like your dad!" now it's almost a daily occurrence. i wish you could see the beautiful young woman I have grown into; I feel you behind me, beside me and with me every day. I know you're there sitting with me and listening to all of the crazy stuff that goes on in my life when I come visit you with flowers. I know you're there on my fiorst days of school, my senior pictures and soon to be graduation. Although you were taken too soon from us, I am thankful that I am closer than ever to you through USR. I am and forever will be blessed to be your daughter, to have Russel Riseman's blood in my body. You were such an amazing man, and I am so grateful I have received many of your personality traits. Love ya dad, your youngest is 18. Feel old yet?
sue tingle
March 10, 2015
Russell left so much music that I found online. How special it is to hear his voice. Just like him to be thinking of the living. He understood far more than most of us will in our lifetime. I miss him and find comfort in his songs. ~sue
Nidia
March 9, 2015
I know you are with Abba and you are looking over your precious wife and children. I pray for their joy and peace as angels continue to protect them . I thank you always for your words of wisdom and purest love. Today again you popped into my dreams with a message of truth and hope. I miss you friend.
July 30, 2013
my shana punum,i think of you and miss you every day.every thought brings a smile to my face and I know you are watching your girls as I always knew my father was watching his.love and laughter to you my friend xo
September 14, 2012
I just googled Russ's name and was really hoping that it was not him... I am so sad right now. I am so happy to see his girls look just like him! My high school kindred spirit ~sue
Ray morrill
August 11, 2012
Never had the pleasure of meeting Russell.but i have met his wonderfull girls and his breathtaking wife. My best wishes for his family
David Riseman
January 3, 2011
Thank you to those who added thoughts in 2010, including Carrie, Michele, Josh, Tad and of course A.J. Russey will never be gone as long people remember him, pray for him and extend their love and admiration. We are deeply grateful for his continued presence and your thoughts ..Arlene and David Riseman
aj riseman
January 2, 2011
i miss and love you so very much....i wish you were here. i need your strength to carry me though these hard times, and your hugs to comfort my sadness. i share my life with the love that created two very special girls. please continue to shine in our lives and re-kindle the light that you have shone unto our paths. please watch over us, guide us, help us bite our own tongues, instead of biting at others. we miss you.
carrie
November 10, 2010
i knew russ while at umass in '79...he was a wonderful man and i am very sad to hear of his passing. god bless his family
Michele Boutin
October 12, 2010
Russ and Aj treated me like family. They were always there for me.
I have fond memories of time in Maine as well as time in Jamacia. Russ had a great sence of humor and we had many laughs. He also was the first person to get me to try eating Portabella mushrooms and liking them....amazing chef. I will never forget him and all the times we spent together. AJ is a lucky woman to have had Russ in her life and Russ was a very lucky guy to have Aj as his wife. Together their love brought 2 beautiful girls into the world......he lives on through all of us but especially through the 3 Riseman gals.
Tad Bonvie
July 6, 2010
Russell's heaven is surely filled with fabulous music, wonderful foods and an incredible display of outrageous artifacts. He was truly a work of art himself and is sorely missed. I am happy to know that he enjoyed such a wonderful family. I treasure the collectables he helped me to acquire and I will continue to think of him often.
josh bartholomew
March 9, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone may his memories live forever i first met russ through cherie i worked for him in killington at panache as well as the 1810 tuscan grille he touched everyone he met he was a good man he taught me so much aboout food in such a short period of time and was the best employer i have worked for to this day he is missed
Lynn Thompson Averett
November 28, 2009
I was good friends with Russell in 1985/1986, we had alot of fun together in Boston, I last saw him in 1989, he was managing Zanzibar. Russell had such a contagious spirit, he was so generous of himself, such a strong presence in life. He gave me some great advice back then, and truly was the epitome of the word "friend." He was always smiling, and that is how I will remember him. RIP Russell, I will never forget you. My heart and prayers go out to your family.
Rona Michele Spiegel
August 29, 2009
I have been thinking about my dear cousin all week and here we are today. Russell, I am back in Sausalito and it is an unusually warm weekend. I decided to stay home today and work on the garden, give my kitties some attention and reflect a bit. Jacob is with his Dad so it is strangely quiet. Our family has grown closer since we lost you; that is something indeed to cherish.
Jackie Swanson
August 27, 2009
I never met Russell, but I have heard a lot about him from my sons girlfriend, Cherie. She has spoken so highly of him, he was her best friend. I have read some of the guest book and looked at the pictures, with tears in my eyes. What a wonderful man he seemed to be, a great friend and family man. I am so very sorry for his passing, it has left a huge void in so many peoples lives. Like I said, I never met him, (my loss) but Cherie, for one, keeps his memory alive. What beautiful children he left behind, you will always have a part of him. My prayers to your family.
Bruce Riseman
August 26, 2009
I do not feel sorrow over the passing of one like Russ. The world was so fortunate to have him visit, his family so blessed to have him in it. I learned young that there is only one promise received when we are born. That promise is always kept and for Russell is was too early in the eyes of all that remain, but not in the eyes of god. Our faith must be true at times like these, as we all go to the same place eventually. What we can take solace in is that beings like Russell were such an inspiration during his time. The last time I saw him, I was approaching my own passing and somehow I was spared. I was saying goodbye to Russ without telling him the nature of that goodbye. I was also in the Restaurant business for many years and never had a chance to share in depth experiences with someone who would understand. I returned from Vietnam with an obsessive need to deserve the life I was given and that life which was spared. The judgement is still out on me but not for Russ. He SO deserved his life and his family so deserved him. None of us could ask for more. I can't miss him in pain. Its not possible for me. I miss him in laughter, admiration, love and awe and every little thing, from his piano playing, to his gentle smile and calm nature. Russell once put to music a silly little song I wrote about a fantasy of a child being born with total recall. A child with the answers who slowly realizes that this incredible awareness is slipping away in the first few moments of life. Being a man of his faith I was surprised he took an interest in this song. He played it beautifully. Made it sound like something profound. Were it true, I can only hope that Russ comes back as someone I recognize.
One time around:
Progress or regress with each chance
to be.
Through each different life you are you, I am me.
We choose and we wonder, we want and we need.
If I could just tell you the things that I've seen,
Rest in peace Russ and if you are coming back, Stay you. You are wonderful. I see you in your children's eyes.
To my extended family. I meant no disrespect by taking so long to make this entry.
I loved him too, but I have been so far away for so long.
David and Arlene Riseman
August 26, 2009
August 29th, 2008 our eldest son Russell Eric passed away after an amazing fight with esophogeal cancer. He asked that his funeral be casual and touched with humor. The eulogy began " here we are at a time we never expected to see, at a place none of us want to be. Sadly time has NOT healed the pain. He was so vital and so full of love for family and friends that the energy he left seems to be increasing. He was a most unusual, talented man. An artist, entreprenuer, chef, eclectic collector, dear husband, devoted daddy, caring brother, and obviously a deeply cherished son.
There are so many time we find he is spiritually with us whispering so many favorite words. If you never knew him you missed out on a special relationship. If you were lucky enough to be with him, you'll never forget the experience. We shall close the Legacy book now but the impact ALWAYS remains. HOORAY FOR RUSSEY, HOORAY FOR RUSSEY, HOORAY FOR RUSSEY, WE MISS HIM SO VERY MUCH. THANK YOU FOR YOUR MANY KIND THOUGHTS. THEY ARE WITH US TILL DEATH DO US PART. DAVID AND ARLENE RISEMAN and Family
Steven Riseman
August 26, 2009
As we approach the 1 year anniversary of your passing, it doesn't seem real. We see you everywhere...in every song, with every crash of an ocean wave, in the laughter of our children, and every great (and not so great) meal. Your passion for life and love has impacted so many people positively. Sydney and Izzy are growing beautifully. They miss you so, but we see you in every question they ask, every story they tell and each expression. They have inherited both you and Aj's love for life and most of all your good heart.
We can still hear your voice, your laughter, clear as day and see your smile. You gave us all so much love and strength, facing your battle with smiles for everyone and jolting a few with your standard way of answering the phone "Hi. I'm not dead yet!". We joked so much about your illness, many thought us morbid but we knew it was the only way...to laugh, to smile and be "fabulous". I just wish it would't rain every time I visit you...it makes it hard to install the neon sign above your headstone :)
We raise our glasses to you each night, and keep you with us always. You are missed beyond words..my brother, my friend.
With Cherie. A friendship like no other.
August 26, 2009
So much love.
August 26, 2009
With his beautiful AJ. What great times they shared.
August 26, 2009
So proud of his Izzy.
August 26, 2009
March 2008. Oh how he loved those girls.
August 26, 2009
July 2008. Still smiling.
August 26, 2009
August 26, 2009
Oct 2007. A tremendous influence on Jackson
August 26, 2009
Oct 2007. A smile for everyone.
August 26, 2009
Jay Blotcher
January 27, 2009
Dear David & Arlene...
I stopped by again to re-read the lovely obit about Russ which asked all of us to remember him in so many simple and lovely ways. The photos you added tear at my heart, but clearly the illness did not triumph over his sweetness and sensitivity. My Dad, Sonny (Mal) also sends his sincere condolences. May you know some comfort amid the enduring pain after this cruel loss.
Jay Blotcher
Russey with Mom, Dad and AJ, not so long ago..What a love !
David and Arlene Riseman
November 24, 2008
May we share some photos of Russey during his last, extremly difficult year. Through every hardship there was always a smile, a giggle, a plan for the future.
Russey looking good but it's so difficult
November 24, 2008
Russey fighting so hard
November 24, 2008
November 23, 2008
Russell...i met u years ago, it feels like just yesterday. You are my best friend and thoughts of you are brought to me daily..I can still hear you yelling at Curtis in the kitchen, see you prepping for panache's nightly pre~ap, plotting the Alehouse's next big night, i can see your face when Syd has a story to tell you about her day...so vivid. You are missed beyond belief....PS Ill make the creme brulee...you never did get it quite right:) love cheech
Karen (Rothstein) Charen
November 3, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to Russ's family and friends. I was sorry to hear of his passing. I grew up across the street from Russ and graduated Randolph High school with him.He was the first neighbor that I met when I first moved to Randolph. There are many fond memories of "concerts" in his basement and middle school/hebrew school parties at the Riseman's.
Van, Jeannie & Torsten Smith
October 7, 2008
AJ, Sydney and Isabella,
We will always be grateful for the friendship that you offered us when we were living in Maine. We miss you. Our thoughts and hearts are with you.
Love Van, Jeannie and Torsten
Scot Hudson
September 28, 2008
I remember the day I met Russ, legs crossed, chef pants on, he asked me what color Zinfandel was...it was an interview. That was 1995 in Vermont at Panache. Everyone who worked for him knew right away that he did not miss a beat. He was always on top of the situation because he asked all the questions, he answered questions wth a question. Daniel once said to me when I was new "he is a mover and a shaker".
I remember when AJ and Russ were married on that beach with the cast-over skies. That black and white photo that somebody took of the two of them kissing. AJ in white and full of life and Russ in black. It was like a post card from another time...but it wasn't, it was their time...and all of ours.
I remember the bottle of white that the three of us shared on the unfinished deck of the Tuscan Grill and I remember the first staff meeting at the Alehouse.
These were all points in time that mark a friendship that I will cherish and at each of these points we were all looking around us and we were all looking forward. It is nice that we can now look back down the same path. It is worthy to note that each point in time will always be viewed from both directions and it is not the moment but the meaning and the purpose that matter.
Russ, in one way or another, knew this. If ever I knew a person to seize the day it was Russ. He filled his life with challenges and results and laughter. Russ was a mover and a shaker.
He left me with a passion for wine and that grows everyday.
carpe diem everyone-
Scott Turbee
September 21, 2008
Well, unfortunately, i only got the pleasure of meeting russ once and only talked a few times via e-mail correspondence... but that's not to say that even the slightest of impressions that one has on somebody can be the biggest, best, and most long lasting ones. My name is Scottie and i am an aspiring chef. My first gastronomic experience happened in a restaurant he was the chef of in Vermont called panache. Here i at some very, VERY exotic foods and realized that eating can take you somewhere that most activities can't. Russ showed me just how crazy you can get with food and that it is most definantly not limited to the American common stock pile of food. Giraffe neck, buffalo, alligator... these are just a few things that put me over the top. I wish i got a chance to meet him again, shake his hand, and let him know that by speaking to me through his food, he pushed an impressionable young kid into what is now a blossoming culinary career. I could go on forever talking about how this one, and some may say insignificant, experience i had had burrowed its way into my mind and has been stuck there for the past 12 years, but i'm not. I will just end this with this: Thank you russell for all you've done... for your inspiration, your kindness, and your dedication to your trade. my grievances go out to his family and friends.
Sincerely,
KATE DENNISON
September 20, 2008
I feel that people cross paths for a reason and Russ crossed ours twice. He and his wife, Andrea, bought our home in Freeport, and then again a few years later, when he began a new position at the Falmouth Country Club as the Food and Beverage Manager. He brought a lot to the Club with his ideas and talents and is very much missed. I know that he was noncomplaining and amazingly strong throughout his ordeal and struggle to gain back his health. My husband and I want to express our sincere condolences to his beautiful family. Kate and John Dennison, Cumberland, Maine
Lou Zambello
September 20, 2008
Russ blew into Falmouth Country Club like a breath of fresh air as the new Food & Beverage Manager. What a job he did with
energy,creativity, passion, and sensitivity.
We interacted immediately and developed a mutual respect and friendship. I was a member of the club. He always greeted me with that melodious " Mr. Z ". I was on the House Committee so we often chatted about his new ideas and he was always open to recommendations. He brought class and style back to the club.
There were rough times but I was always an ally because of my respect for his intent and ernestness. You ran one great operation Mr. Russ. I will smile and tear every time I think of you but also will know that you are now whole and with Him forever. Love you dear friend
Elizabeth Robertson
September 19, 2008
I am so sad to know that Russ has passed. He will be missed so dearly.
His soul is sweet and I know the angels are singing his praises.
Darren Kelley
September 19, 2008
We'll miss you Russ, I had a lot of great memories at the Alehouse. Thinking of your family at this time. You won't be forgotten
Jean Moore
September 16, 2008
Dear Russ, I hope you are at peace and watching over AJ and the girls with love and guidance. I know you are sadly missed. God Bless you and your family.
David Nebbia
September 15, 2008
Where to begin... my love for the Risemans is to much to express on this guestbook. From the first time I met you both (AJ & RUSS) at the bar, I instantly fell in love with you guys. The laughs, the late nights, the laughs... The card AJ gave me on my job change (lol)... I have some great warm memories of Russ. Its not often you find a woman with so much strength as AJ. She is one of the most wonderful people I have ever met, and that goes for Russ as well! I will miss him dearly! All my love to A.J, Sidney and Izzy. You are in my thoughts and in my heart!
Nanci (Schultz) Harvey
September 15, 2008
My brother, sister and I would like to send our condolences to the entire Riseman family. We were neighbors in Randolph and knew Russell many, many years ago. We were truly very sorry to hear this sad news.
Stacy Laughton
September 11, 2008
AJ, Syd, Izzy,
3 fabulous strong females. How fortunate those of us are to have spent time with Russ and all of you over the years laughing, eating well, and dancing till it hurt. Russ will be missed but never that far away from where it matters most. Love to you all and the whole family.
Paul Woodruff
September 10, 2008
Andrea-
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Tom Anthony
September 9, 2008
Andrea--
Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I hope you feel the love and support of all your friends and family all around you and the strength of God's comforting hand supporting you and giving you strength each day.
Love ya much!
Tom Anthony
Bill Rocha
September 9, 2008
Hey Russ, I have so many great stories about you, even in the few years that I knew you. You helped me through the bad times, and made sure the good times were always amazing... Thanks for being my boss, my advisor, and above all, my friend. I really miss you, man. You'll always be a legend...
Rebecca, Noah, Isaac,Sarah and Adam Porter
September 9, 2008
A.J, Sidney and Izzy,
My son Noah was in Sid's kindergeten class and Izzy was in my son Adam's preschool class.I just heard of you loss of Russell. We are deeply saddend by your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls. We only had the chance to meet your family once at Sidney's amazing birthday bash and your family was nothing short of loving and gracious. May God watch over you and the girls. If you need anything please feel free to ask Peg Neil for our number. Our prayers are with you!
Emily Brown
September 9, 2008
Andrea - You, Russ, Sydney, and Izzy have all been in my daily prayers through this illness. I send my prayers, love, and great big hugs across the miles that separate us. I wish I could be there for you in person, but I am always right beside you in thought, and am never more than a phone call away - just the same after all these years of us being friends. I never had the privilege of meeting Russ, but saw his love in you, his beautiful wife. I love you, Andrea.....Em
Theresa Stivers
September 8, 2008
We met Mr. Riseman when he was here to see our Dr Thomas Gearan.
All of us at the Greater Portland Medical Group are very sorry for your loss and your family is in our prays.
Ron Riseman
September 8, 2008
On behalf of Mollie (widow of Myer), Ron, his wife Susan, son Corey and daughters Randi Riseman and Daryl Perkins; we extend our deepest sympathy to Russels family. I didn't know him well, but when I did meet him found him to be a bright and vibrant person who I was certain would be great to know. He just had a way of making you feel like he'd known you for al long time. Our heart aches for Russell's family and they are in our prayers!
With Love,
Ron Riseman
edward riseman
September 8, 2008
With huge regret I write to say how sorry and sad I am that Russ Riseman is no longer with his family and friends, as his cousin I remember his impressive ability to do magic tricks taught by his Dad, David. I know how much pride and joy he brought to all his family as a Father, Husband, Son, Brother, Uncle, Nephew Cousin and Grandson to his late grand-parents Nellie & Charlie and as I see here, his extended network of friends. Russ was an impressive guy who lived alot and his obvious curiosity about life is a testament to his personal qualities and the sense of adventure and fun he learned from his parents. Russ's Grandmother used to tell me stories about her Mother, Rose, and also stressed a jewish proverb that as long as a person was still being talked about they remained part of the family and stayed in the present, Russ is uniquely placed to be talked about and I hope that there is some comfort that even though he is at peace, Russ is still very much amongst those that loved him deepest and bestest
aj riseman
September 8, 2008
as time allows our family to remember all fondly and warmly memories of yours and ours, i thank all of you, for signing this book...this book will contain all of your fond memories to pass onto my children as they grow. thank you. thank you ma and dad for giving me russey. i love you both so much it hurts.... and to all of my friends and family who are supporting me ( and sydney and isabella) through this time....thank you ...thank you soo much
Kiern Robillard
September 7, 2008
Our family is blessed to have met Russ, A.J., Sydney and Izzy. An amazing family that is warm, honest, and strong. With a great sense of humor! Unfortunately we didn’t have the opportunity to spend much time with Russ. But we quickly came to know him as a kind man, devoted husband and father. He sincerely welcomed our daughter Faith into his home. Patiently cooked dinner for her, a picky 4 year old, who remembers Russ as being funny and making really good stuffing. He touched so many lives, and his spirit will live on. May he be an inspiration to all. Care and support from our family to yours.
Michael, Kiern and Faith Robillard
Amanda Norman
September 7, 2008
Andrea
My heart and thoughts are with you. I never had the priviledge of meeting Russ but felt as if I knew him from the stories you told me. I wish I could be there with you but I know you, Sydney, and Izzy are well taken care of. I love you!
Jen Genovese
September 7, 2008
I send my condolences to all of Russ's family and friends. It is so tragic to have such a young, brilliant, and kind hearted person be taken away. We learn to remember those we have lost by the valuable lessons they teach us along this sometimes painful journey of life. I wish there were answers to tell us why those we love are ripped away but I have learned the hard way that they don't come. We just have to live life to the fullest, teach our children to do the same, and to never let people forget how wonderful those who leave this world before us were. Let Russ's vibrant light live on in all of our hearts.
Arlene Riseman
September 7, 2008
My dearest Russell, There are no words to describe my sadness knowing there will be no more hugs & kisses-or your smiles- the sound of your laughter- no more " Hi ma " ! Your father and I were blessed to have had you with us for 47 years. I swell with pride when people talk about you-the courage and dignity you showed during your illness-never complaining or whining or questioning "why me". The last time I held you was like holding my baby again, my first born.You will forever live in my heart. My only consolation is that please G-d you are no longer in pain and are at peace. Till we meet again, sleep well my beautiful boy. I love you. Mom
Vicki Thompson
September 7, 2008
AJ, I am truely sorry for your loss. I try to keep in mind "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. 2Cor." No more pain, no suffering. Just Glory! I am praying for His peace & His comfort for you & your family in Jesus Name. I love you & send my hugs... :) ...Vicki
Lucy Wilson
September 7, 2008
I didn't know Russ. I was reading the the obituaries and read Russ's. I regret that I never knew him. It makes me aware of how short our time is here and that God puts us here to serve Him as well as one another. We have to reach out to people more often as Russ did and never sit back and feel comfortable in our own little space. Maybe if I had been more agressive in my attempts to reach out to others, I may have met him in my many travels to Maine. Russ did what God expects of us and in return for that, he is now at the right hand of our Father. Based on what all of his friends and family have written here, he left this earth a better place. There is no better legacy than that!
Peggy Donahue
September 7, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
With love,
Russ, Peggy, Mark and Scott Donahue
Jacqueline Riseman-Detsky
September 6, 2008
Dearest Russ,
I'e known you since, as they say, you were a gleam in your father's eye. The your mother's. Oh,how your Nana and Grandpa thought you were the most beautiful, the most wondrous child and a orelude to your 2 beautiful brothers. Then, we watched you become a gleam, a shining light in AJ;s eyes, and in those of your little daughters for whom you were and will be always the sun and the moon. When I look at starry nights I will think always of you. AUntie Jackie
Beth Waters
September 6, 2008
Russ was an amazing man. No matter what he was doing, he always paused to greet me. He always had a kind word for me. I was fortunate enough to stay with the Riseman's in March when I moved home. I'll miss talking with him about his favorite things...The Beatles, music in general. Books we had read, movies we had seen. I'll never forget.
AJ, Sydney and Isabella. I love you all. Please accept my love and sympathy during this difficult time.
Jeff Levine
September 6, 2008
Russell,
I feel honored to have known you not only as a cousin, but as a friend. Connie and I will always remember the times we had with you and AJ in Vermont. You will be missed
"Go then. There are other worlds than these"
Seymour Detsky
September 6, 2008
Sept 6 Jackie and Sy Detsky together
with Mark and AJ will always treasure
the inner kindness and love that
Russell possessed that kindled an
immediate rapport and connection
with others . We will treasure his
love and memories forever and
keep connected
David Riseman
September 6, 2008
One week ago our Russey passed away. Our minds have cleared somewhat and our thoughts more focused. I have come to realize that this guest book will serve as reference material in the future as time fades our memories. Russey fought his esophageal cancer with great determination. He was stage IV with metasis to the abdomen at the time. We all knew his time was measured yet the hope continued. The chemo and radiation seemed to help for awhile but at this moment in medicine we know that cancer rebounds after first being stopped. Almost to his last days he was looking forward to extending his lifetime and we all held a glimmer of hope. When his mother and I last saw him four days before we lost him he said " Dad I have lost much, but the greatest loss is that I have lost myself " With his great vitality and love of life and family it is impossible to accept that he is gone. As Russey and I agreed we will never say goodbye just " see you later " and to those who read this in future years please remember we shall never say goodbye. See ya later Russey our love...Dad
Christine Parker -Desilets
September 6, 2008
I first meet Russ in Killington, VT. Where he opened Panache restaurant.I have many happy memories of Russ. His smile and laugh will always remain with me.He was a man that made life fun and memorable.My prayers and thoughts go out to the Riseman family.
Wendy Marstaller
September 6, 2008
Dear AJ, Sidney and Izzy,
We want you to know we are thinking of you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are here if you need anything, anytime.. With our love, Wendy, Kerry and Cindy, at Morse Street xox Love you all
Cherie Desilets
September 6, 2008
Russell,
My dearest Russell. A friendship like ours is beyond words. I will forever hold you in my heart and can only hope to share and show as much unconditional love in my life as you gave me...tous mon amour.
Sheryl Weatherford
September 5, 2008
I unfortuantely did not have the privilege to meet Russ but I have heard so many wonderful things about him from his Loving wife AJ and my daughter Shanna. With the wonderful stories I have heard and knowing AJ and Shanna Russ had to be a wonderful man, husband and father.
AJ, my heart goes out to you, Sidney, Izzy and his entire family. You will be in my prayers.
Love you very much.
Sheryl
Shanna Jones
September 4, 2008
Riseman family,
I am deeply saddened by your loss. I had the honor and pleasure of meeting my best friend's husband and was immediately welcomed into your family. Russ was an amazing man, father, husband, son, brother, uncle & friend. A man that has touched so many people around the world and will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. love shanna
aj riseman
September 4, 2008
how do you begin to share with the world how much you love and cherish your best friend, love of your life, father of your children, comedian, music lover, world traveler, best chef in the world, and and so much more.... my heart is very sad but my soul is much lighter and happier knowing that my russell is no longer in any pain, and that he can now enjoy all the food, and company of his best friends trixie and chelsea, and other family members that have preceeded him. as for all the family and friends that remain here, our world is so much more vivid than it ever was without him in it, and we should all remember taht when we are sad. thank you to all ....may good vibrations and health follow all of you...especially all of you risemans. i am so honored to be one of you..horay for russey! horay for russey...horay for russey we love him very much!!!
Rona and Jacob Spiegel
September 3, 2008
AJ, Sydney and Izzy - We want you to know that our doors are always open to you in San Francisco. Please visit us. We send love and warm healing thoughts. You are strong beautiful women (and women in training ;-) Be well, dears. xxxxx
Alden Cohen
September 3, 2008
He has left so many splendid memories and even more friends...touching people who may never have met him but know him through their own friends and family. It was many, many years ago when I firt met him as Dave took him along to one of our conventions in Boston as he was first learning to become so magical. And, of course, I would often learn of his exploits as only a proud dad can relate. I am so very sorry for all his family and friends left behind. May his memories continue to charm those who knew him.
--Alden Cohen
Rona Michele Spiegel
September 3, 2008
Dear Russell, my cousin, my big brother, my friend, devoted husband, father and son - your work in this world has not gone nor will it ever go unnoticed. We see and feel your love in your family and community every day.
Dearest Arlene, David, Aaron and Steven - Never has this family felt such grief. I am in awe of your strength. I send as many wide warm hugs as this guestbook will allow.
Love love love.
Denise Bell
September 3, 2008
Aj and Family, I remember fondly the Father Daughter dance that he designated at the FCC. To this day it remains one of my daughters fondest memories. My heart and thoughts are with you and especially those beautiful girls and hope that their memories of their Dad be as unforgettable as the memories he helped forge for our daughter.
Muriel Gluck
September 3, 2008
My Dear Family - Russell Eric was and always will be a special light in my life; he spread such joy and love. My love to you all and may you gain strength.
Dawn Beauregard
September 2, 2008
Steve-
My heartfelt condolences to your family~ although I never met Russ, you spoke about him with such admiration and love. May your memories always make you smile~
Lauren Barnes
September 2, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes out to Russ's family.His family and mine grew up together on Fitch Terrace in Randolph and I have many fond memories of magic shows and rock concerts, high school and college graduation and time spent in Boston when we were new grads and just starting out. My parents, sisters and I send out warm loving thoughts to all of the family. May happy memories comfort you- Lauren Segelman Barnes
Aaron Riseman
September 2, 2008
It is indeed heart-warming to see such an outpouring of affection from so many people. Friends of Russell, as well as friends of Steven, my parents and myself. Thank you all for being here and sharing your thoughts and prayers with us. Russell is undoubtably proud to know so many people love him and his entire family. may his memory be for a blessing for us all.
Steve Riseman
September 1, 2008
Thank you for sharing your memories of Russ. He was my best friend and biggest cheerleader. We will miss him enormously, but his smile and laugh will live in our hearts forever.
Janice (Killion) Blackstead
September 1, 2008
Russell and I were good friends during the late 70's & early 80's. I have many fond memories of those days. We ran into each other a few times during his days managing Zanzabar. Russell was truly one of a kind and always kind and caring. As a mother of two young dauthers, my heart goes out to his wife and children. I'm sure that he'll watch over you forever.
With deepest sympathy to all,
Sharyn Lonsdale
September 1, 2008
I was so sad to hear about Russell. I remember him as a warm and funny guy in high school and talking to him was a highlight of my RHS reunion. I was impressed with how much he had accomplished and his enthusiasm for everything in his life. My heart goes out to his family.
Sharyn (Finkel) Lonsdale, Florida
Barbara and Martin Greenfield
September 1, 2008
Dear Arlene and Dave,
Words cannot describe how sorry we are for your entire family. We haven't seen Russell since he graduated with our Carole. We hope your wonderful memories of times together will ease the pain.
Marty & Bobbie Greenfield
Jay Blotcher
September 1, 2008
My heart weeps for Russell's parents, wife, children and entire family. My loving thoughts and condolences are with you all! I grew up with Russell, from Hebrew School to High School, and was always touched by his sense of humor and fair play; he was always a mensch! His memory and his deeds will inspire us all.
Steve Rogan
September 1, 2008
Dear Russell your friends from RHS class of 1978 will not forget you. We had many great times which I will always remember- the Cape, UMASS, concerts, parties and all the other things that remind us of better times will always remain with me and, in that spirit, you will never be gone. I will think of you and miss you. To Russell's family- please accept my sincerest condolences.
Love, Steve Rogan "Pugs"
David & Arlene Riseman
September 1, 2008
We loved our Russey with all our heart and to the depth of our souls.We are so please so many of friends have blessed his name. From our entire family " thank you " David and Arlene Riseman
Jeff Glidden
September 1, 2008
I loved Russ Riseman. We all did. I'm so glad that I had him as a friend and was able to tell him how much he meant to all of us.-
Jeff Glidden/Lazy Lightning
Debbie Allendorf & Family
August 31, 2008
We never met Russell but we know from Stacy & Steve that he was a wonderful and amazing man, a loving son, husband and of course devoted father to his girls. Please know that our hearts and thoughts are with the entire family right now. God bless
Larry & Beverly Strumpf
August 31, 2008
Our heartfelt condolences. May Russell's memory be an eternal blessing.
Corinne (Warren) Zeman
August 31, 2008
Arlene - my deepest sympathy on your tragic loss - words are inadequate for the death of a child but it sounds like he had a life well lived in the time he had and for that one can be grateful. Blessings for his wife and children, parents, and extended family.
Bob and Sue Cavicchi
August 31, 2008
"Our son is the jewel which God left with us and now his Master has taken back his very own." ... Midrush
We send our love and prayers.
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