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Keith Rishell Obituary

July 10, 1931 - Oct. 13, 2015 Kansas son, California boy, rascal brother. Korean War Airman and Berkeley trained architect: innovator of buildings and airplanes. Thoughtful husband, treasured dad, and delighted grandpa: maker of solar systems and sky scrapers. Mentor to any stranger, father to any child, trusted friend, gregarious hermit. Extraordinary man. Abruptly gone at 84, still creating. Our lives are unspeakably diminished.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Nov. 22, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Keith Rishell

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3 Entries

November 23, 2015

My Roomie Keith
Keith and I first met in Concord, California in 1954 at
East Contra Costa Junior College where we had both
enrolled after being discharged from the service at the
end of the Korean War.
We became friends and when we found out that we were
both going to go on to Cal-Berkeley to study Architecture,
we decided to become roommates. We shared a humble
apartment in Berkeley during those early years at Cal.
I moved to Sweden to further my studies while Keith
finished up at Cal.
We corresponded while I was in Sweden and fondly
remember that Keith sent me a $5 bill when I explained
how short of funds I was.
When I returned from Sweden we renewed our friendship,
but I forgot to pay him back, and the debt remains to this
day.
We were able to work together, initially in our own first
architectural practices, and again on hospital projects
during Keith's career at the Office of Statewide Planning
and Development (OSHPD) and my career in private
practice Group 5 Architects.
Fast forward to a relationship that has lasted for over 60
years.
Keith was the most knowledgeable and respected architect
I know.
Keith could be counted on for professional advice, and he
and Rose for social activities and lasting friendship with
Lillan and myself.
I sure will miss my ole' Roomie.
Richard Swain
November 7, 2015

November 23, 2015

He was a great friend. His model train set up in his garage was a great delight to my grandsons and friends' children. He will be missed. Bhima R. Nagarajan

James KELLY

November 22, 2015

Keith inspired me to me to think critically and respond compassionately. His influence on my world view was enormous. It was a privilege to know him.

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