William R. Risley

I just learned of Will's death. I am deeply saddened. Will was my Dartmouth classmate and my freshman year roommate. We shared our awe of the College and all of our many freshman mistakes. He was an engaging fellow and I am not surprised at his later academic success. I send my sympathies to all of the others who loved him.

Years ago now I worked along side Will, in the Department of Liberal Studies and the Arts at UW-Madison. I always liked working with Will, he had usually positive things to say when the world around us was not conducive to positive thoughts. Bob Wilson, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics, UW-Madison

I send you all my deepest sympathies. Will was a wonderful colleague and a great friend. I still remember the day that I met him during my interview for a position at the university - he took me to the 18th floor of Van Hise and showed me the sights! I enjoyed all the following years that I was able to work with him. You are in my heart and I know that he will be missed.

My heartfelt condolences to the Risley family. As a UW-Madison grad student, Will gave me a chance to teach a higher leverl of Spanish when I replaced him (if that was possible!) in his literature class while on medical leave. It was a great experience and undoubtedly one factor in my getting my tenure-track job later. I will never forget him. May he rest in peace.

Dear Diane and family, Please accept my condolences on the passing of one of my favorite departmental colleagues -- Dear Will was the "spirit of the party" who kept us all in balance! So glad we could be together for so many decades. May God bless and comfort you at this time of transition. Love, Mary Lou Daniel