Robert Ames Riseley

Robert Ames Riseley passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025 in Woodstock, GA surrounded by his loving family. He was 78 years old.

Bob (aka Butch) was born on July 29, 1947 to William E. Riseley Jr. and Jean Legg Riseley. He was raised in Tenafly, NJ and lived most of his life there before moving to Red Hook, NY and then to Marietta, GA. He attended Ithaca College where he played on the golf and baseball teams and received a BS degree in Business.

His professional life focused on finance and real estate. Many years ago his company, Knickerbocker Associates, LLC, took over the second phase of construction of a townhouse development called Bears Nest in Park Ridge, NJ. It was during this time he quietly negotiated a real estate transaction with former president Richard M. Nixon and ultimately put the community on the map as a premier place to live in Bergen County, NJ. His company was also involved with the Phillips family during their fight with the State of New York over the future of their private property called Lake Minnewaska. Bob and the Phillips lost the fight, but won the battle to ensure the value of the property was properly appraised and guarantee the land was sold for its true worth.

Bob was a member of the Knickerbocker Country Club in Tenafly, NJ for over 30 years and was the Men’s Golf Club Champion 11 times. He developed everlasting friendships there and it was probably one of the happiest times in his life.

At the age of 40 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and began a journey that was both a painful struggle and a challenge. However, Parkinson’s Disease did not define who he was or how he lived his life. Instead, it highlighted his strength and determination and some may say his stubbornness to live life to the fullest. He continued to play golf with the help of his friends who often strapped crutches on the golf cart so he could get to his golf ball when he needed to. He taught everyone who knew him that the challenges in life are better viewed as a glass half full than half empty.

When he could no longer play golf he turned his creativity towards developing the “Sidekick” putter, a putter design that could be used to putt side saddle. It was a style he switched to when his balance began to decline. He spent many years tinkering and ultimately secured a patent.

This was Bob. Determined to find answers and seek solutions to problems rather than sit on the sidelines. He taught everyone around him that being genuine and true to yourself will not only bring happiness, but that it can make the world a better place for us all.

The family would like to thank all the wonderful caregivers at Brickmont Assisted Living and Tapestry Hospice for their care and most importantly their warmth and understanding.

Bob is survived by his sister, Barbara Schmeelk, of Marietta GA, his brother William E. Riseley III (Kyle) of Marion, MA, niece Katie Wilson (Jay) of Roswell, GA, nephew Chip Schmeelk (Michelle) of Marietta, GA, nephew Will Riseley (Tara) of Boulder, CO, and nephew Ned Riseley of Brooklyn, NY. Bob also has eight great nieces and nephews, Courtney, James, Ryan, Landon, Greyson, Hattie, Louise, and Finn.

In lieu of flowers or contributions please pay forward with kindness to others in tribute to Bob’s legacy of compassion and thoughtfulness for all those nearest and dearest to him.