Bruce D. Risinger

Bruce D. Risinger, was born in Poteau, Oklahoma on April 5, 1937, the son of H.D. & Madeline Risinger. He died on February 17, 2011 in Wichita after a short illness at the age of 73. In 1955, Bruce graduated from high school in Putnam City, Oklahoma. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma in 1959 and was named distinguished Air Force ROTC graduate and was a dedicated Sooner fan. Bruce joined the United States Air Force upon graduation from college becoming a Command Pilot with over 3000 hours in the cockpit, serving in Alaska, Texas, New York and Kansas. He also served in Viet Nam, Honduras and Germany. In 1987, he retired from the Air Force being stationed at McConnell achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel. A Master of Arts in Communications degree was received in 1991 from Wichita State University. Favorite activities included singing and acting with church choirs, quartets and stage plays and was a radio announcer for some time at a local FM station. He provided voice-overs for several television specials, “Father Emil Kapaun” and “Black and Gold”. His dedication was to classical music, especially opera. Bruce helped found Opera Kansas. At Collegiate, Andover and Wichita schools, he was a well respected substitute teacher. Membership was with Andover United Methodist Church in Andover, KS. Survivors include his step-mother, Hazel Risinger of Oklahoma City, OK; wife of 43 years, Charlotte; two siblings, D. Michael Risinger (Lessley) of Kearney, NJ, Kathleen F. Lum (Hung) of Louisville, KY; five children, daughters, Karen M. Mott (Kevin) of Oklahoma City, OK, Lauren E. Davison (Christopher) of Denver, CO; stepson, Michael L. Jackson (Kristina) of Wichita, KS; sons, Anthony J. Risinger of Atlanta, GA, Nicholas C. Risinger of Wichita, KS; seven grandchildren, Jennifer M. Jackson and Jessica L. Jackson, both of Foehren, Germany, Gregory Klag-Jackson, Robert M. Jackson, Grant M. Risinger, all of Wichita, KS; Katherine R. Davison and Amelia E. Davison, both of Denver, CO. Bruce determined he could best serve future physicians by donating his body to the University of Kansas Medical School. A memorial service will be held for Bruce at 10AM, Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at Andover United Methodist Church, 1429 N. Andover Rd. Andover. All who knew Bruce are invited. In lieu of flowers, the family requests Bruce’s friends consider donations to one of the following: Opera Kansas, The University of Oklahoma Alumni Association or American Heart Association.