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Malcolm Risk Obituary
Their lives will be celebrated at a graveside memorial service at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Independence, Iowa, on May 31, 2025, at 10 a.m.
Ella May Risk was born May 16, 1939, in Nevada, Iowa, to William Franklin Ball and Mary Belle (Boston) Ball. She graduated from Nevada High School in 1957 and pursued Home Economics at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, California.
Malcolm George Risk was born November 6, 1937, in Independence, Iowa, to Don Alexander Risk and Lydia (Biedermann) Risk. He graduated from Independence High School in 1956 and studied Engineering at the University of Iowa.
They were married on December 31, 1965, at the First Presbyterian Church, in Independence.
Together, Malcolm and Ella embraced life's adventures, living in Texas, Florida, and Washington, before settling in Cedar Rapids and then Independence, to raise their family. They enjoyed traveling together and going to concerts. Their home was filled with laughter, shared meals, and unwavering support for their children and community.
Ella's creative spirit shone through her love for holidays, where she transformed their home with festive decorations and hand-sewn treasures. She took immense pride in leading her Girl Scout troop, inspiring young girls with her warmth and guidance. Ella delighted in connecting with friends online and enjoyed trivia games. Malcolm found joy in the outdoors, fishing, hunting, and on the golf course. A devoted Iowa Hawkeye fan, he rarely missed a football game. He served as an Elder and Deacon at the First Presbyterian Church in Independence, where he was a lifelong member.
They are survived by their sons, Scott (Julie) Risk of Grapevine, Texas, and Steve Risk of Independence; daughters, Shannon Risk of Niagara Falls, New York, and Suzi (Brian) Risk of Blairstown, Iowa; three grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. They were preceded in death by their son in infancy, Sean Risk; Ella's brother, Russell Ball; Malcolm's brother, Donald Risk; and their parents.
The family welcomes memorial donations to the Nevada American Legion, William F. Ball Post 48, honoring Ella's father, a WWII veteran, or to Cedar Valley Hospice, where Malcolm volunteered.
Condolences may be left at www.White-MtHope.com. White Funeral Home of Independence is handling arrangements. Malcolm and Ella's love for family and life's simple joys will forever inspire those who knew them.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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