Edward Alton Risinger, Jr.

November 15, 1944 – October 4, 2024

Edward Alton Risinger, Jr., Westfield, died after a long, gallant fight with Parkinson’s Disease.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Carol (née Wood); children, Edward (Kim) of Bloomington-Normal, Ill., Eric (Amy) of Glenview, Ill., Michelle of Washington, D.C., (Jeremy) and Mary Ridley (Jordan) of Noblesville; cherished grandchildren, Mark, Matthew, Annika, Annabelle, Connor, Lucas, and Summer; loving sister, Carol Risinger Robbins (Leroy); as well as many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by parents, Edward Alton Risinger and Jeanne (nee Lautebauche) Risinger of Hartford City, Ind.; and sisters, Catherine of Hartford City and Barbara Cheney of Lexington, Ky.

Edward was an Air Force veteran serving as a squadron commander stationed in Clovis, N.M., from 1966 to 1970 following his participation in the ROTC. Edward moved to Chicago following graduating from Ball State after earning a doctorate in American History and Education to work at National-Louis University (formerly National College of Education) as a professor and then administrator. He moved to Stockton, Ill., in 2005 to enjoy “Country Living” on his wooded three acres for 13 years and then to Westfield in 2018 to be closer to family and grandchildren.

For the 23 years that Ed fought against Parkinson’s, he remained committed to knowledge, information, and academia. As a historian, he dedicated his time to understanding and appreciating the complexities of humanity. Surrounded by books, articles, and journals, he committed his life to grasping the intricacies of human nature, embracing the diversity that defines us. He spent countless hours reading and studying various religions and was driven by a genuine desire to comprehend and learn about various beliefs. With in-depth knowledge, historical insight, and an open heart, he could discuss different religions, viewpoints, values, and lifestyles with precision and curiosity. His inherent ability to see the value of another being was a quality that drew others to him. Whenever he encountered an unfamiliar concept or value, he approached it with an eagerness to learn and an open mind. He used his knowledge for understanding, not judgment, and his intellect to advocate, not marginalize.

Ed sought to understand and recognize the value in everyone. He was a person of humility and authenticity, never boasting, with his priorities firmly set on the comfort and happiness of his family above everything else. Ed’s profound love for his wife Carol was heartwarming, and her unwavering devotion in return enabled him to spend the final days of his illness in the peace and comfort of their home. Carol, in essence, faced Parkinson’s alongside Ed, standing by him as his devoted partner.

Ed was a true animal lover and environmentalist, frequently spotted in an animal rescue T-shirt while perusing a National Geographic article. For any stray cat that stumbled upon him, it was akin to winning the lottery for life. His respect for nature and ability to coexist peacefully with all creatures served as an inspiration. Ed was beloved for his humorous “quips,” mastery of dad jokes, and his signature thumbs up. He adored the laughter of children, relished family gatherings, and had an unapologetically strong sweet tooth.

Ed was the embodiment of what it means to be both good and unique, and to say he will be missed is an immense understatement for his family. The family wishes to deeply thank Paradyme Hospice/Palliative Care for their support and care during his courageous fight to remain independent to the end of his journey. Donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation (parkinson.org) or the Humane Society for Hamilton County (hamiltonhumane.com).

A celebration of life will be held in November. Please contact the family for additional information.

Condolences: randallroberts.com