Obituary of Michael L. Risley

Michael L. Risley, 62, passed away at Hartford Hospital on November 15, 2017 surrounded by his loving family.  Michael was the beloved husband of Karen Sarcia Risley. Mike was born on May 8, 1955 and was a son of the late Meltire Bebe Risley and Marie (Rich) Risley. He graduated with honors from Wethersfield High and attended Berklee College of Music where he pursued his love of drumming. After marrying his soulmate, he resided in Amston, CT, where he spent many happy times with his wife and son Colin, enjoyed numerous golf games and walks with his precious dogs at Grayville Park. At the time of his death, Michael was employed as a Mortgage Banking Officer with Webster Bank. "Riz", as many affectionately called him, was the original drummer for Street Temperature and played in numerous other bands over the years. He will be remembered not only as an incredibly talented and gifted drummer, but as a kind, intelligent, and humorous friend, work colleague, and devoted husband and father. In addition to Karen, he leaves his beloved son Colin Michael Risley at home; his mother, Marie Risley of Wethersfield; brother, Richard Risley and wife Phillie, of Wethersfield;  sisters: Gail Risley of Wethersfield, Lori Kolakowski and husband Steve and their children of Rocky Hill, CT; Linda Pare and husband Matt and daughter, of Wethersfield, CT.  He also leaves in-laws Bebe and Fred Dudley of Amston, CT and Helina and Joseph Sarcia of Tolland, CT and Grandma Clara Saglio of Glastonbury, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and colleagues. Karen and Colin invite family and friends to join them for a Memorial Service on December 2, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. to honor Mike's life at The Buckingham Congregational Church, 16 Cricket Lane, Glastonbury, CT,  followed by a life celebration at The Adam's Mill Restaurant, 165 Adams Street, Manchester, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Berklee College of Music,  Attn.: Jo Craig, Gifts Processor, MS-161-AS, 1140 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02215 or online at www.berklee.edu/make-gift.  For online condolences, please visit www.mulryanfh.com.