I knew Risa growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area. We went to high school together, and shared that college year abroad in Darmstadt, Germany. I remember in high school when her father passed away unexpectedly, how devastating that was! Risa and her family went through that difficult time, but she survived and found joy in her love for music, the Beatles, and playing her flute (she dubbed our group “Bach and the Meatballs!”)
Her love for travel and exploring was contagious. We spent hours poring over maps during that college Sophomore year abroad, and enjoyed lots of outings. Also we had many laughs and memories of quirky people we encountered (our headmistress’s obsessions regarding diet, and her shock when she caught us drinking real coffee became an oft-repeated anecdote). Risa knew how to have fun and enjoy life, and had a marvelous sense of humor. She was a talented and deep person, as well. My husband got to know her, too, after we finished college. We joined in bread making with her family many times and had great times. We lost touch after we all left the Bay Area, but I appreciate FaceBook in bringing us back in contact, and seeing her current adventures with her husband, Peter. Sincerest condolences to you, Peter, and your family. Such a heartbreaking loss. Our greatest sympathies. May light perpetual shine on her. And May you find comfort.
