Robert R. RIZER

News Death Notice

RIZER, Robert R. "Bob" 76, of Springfield, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2012 at his home. He was born in Springfield on November 23, 1935, the fifth child of Harry and Alice (Kelly) Rizer, and was known as "Porky" from a young age. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, the former Joan Nash. They were married at St. Teresa Catholic Church in 1957 and were lifetime members of that parish. Together, they had five children: Ed (Ann) Rizer of Dayton, Mike (Jo) Rizer of Charlotte, NC, Susie (Mike) Whitacre of Little Rock, AR, Anne (Phil) Drayton of Dayton and Jane (Jeff) Weller of Indianapolis, IN; they also have 15 grandchildren. Bob is survived by three siblings, Don Rizer, Tim (Mary Jo) Rizer and Jean Ann (Bill) Gonce, all of Springfield. He is preceded in death by a brother, Jerry. Bob's life reflected three core beliefs: hard work, integrity and family. He was a 1954 graduate of Catholic Central High School and a 1959 graduate of the University of Dayton. Bob was most recently General Manager of Champion Manufacturing. He spent most of his career in sales or management in the manufacturing sector and was known for turning around small companies. He was more often found walking the floor of a plant talking to machine operators, than behind his desk, and, while the companies he managed were very successful, he always noted that it was the people who created the success. Over the years, he took special care to help countless employees who needed support outside of the workplace. Throughout his life, he made difficult choices that were not always popular, but he always stayed true to his beliefs. He served on several community boards, including Catholic Central High School, AAA and the Clark County Children's Home. A long-time member of the Springfield Country Club, he loved golf and played it regularly until recent years. He also enjoyed gardening and had a genuine appreciation for nature; he took delight in creating floral arrangements around the house from what he had grown. A high school football star, he enjoyed watching the game at all levels. Bob was always upbeat and social, even in his final days. He found no greater joy than in being with his large family, who would like to thank all of those friends and medical professionals who provided immense support and comfort over the last few years of his life. Friends may call in the CONROY FUNERAL HOME from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday in St. Teresa Church. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Catholic Central High School or The Clark County Humane Society.