Harry E. Riser

Harry Edward Riser “Huck” 88 passed away on 11/26/2016.

The amazing Harry Riser was born March 12, 1928 in Vincennes, IN. Husband, Father, Grandfather, Magician, Jazz Aficionado, Art Collector, Radio Show Host & True Gentleman; he was the son of the late Harry and Jessie Reel Riser. After graduation from Vincennes High School in 1946, He attended Indiana University and earned a Business Degree in 1950.

Harry married Mary Margret Shroyer on February 8th 1951; they were happily married for over 62 years before her passing. He has two children (son) John Riser & (daughter) Susan Riser and a (grandson) Conrad Riser. He was a devoted and peaceful family man.

After college, Harry first worked for Arvin Industries and lived in Portland. He then transitioned into the insurance industry which took them to Seattle, Dallas, Chicago, Detroit and finally settling back in Indianapolis where he retired from a long career at the NyHart Company as the Executive Vice President.

Harry had several lifelong passions. He was one of the leading “sleight of hand” Magicians in the world and wrote two critically acclaimed books “The Feints and Temps of Harry Riser” and “Secrets of an Escamoteur”. Harry wrote a Magic Column for the MUM Magazine for many years. He performed, mentored and lectured for magicians internationally throughout his life. He was inducted into the Society of American Magicians Hall of Fame in 2016. The local Indianapolis Magic Club is named in his honor.

Harry’s love of Big Band Jazz started at an early age and was a major theme throughout his life. He made a second career out of his passion for Big Band Music. For over 25 years he produced and was the Radio Personality of “The Grand Big Band Radio Hour” on WICR “The Diamond” at the University of Indianapolis. Harry’s shows included personal interviews with Band Leaders, Singers and Musicians. In 2014 he was inducted into the Indiana Jazz Hall of Fame. Harry coined many phrases as a DJ and signed off “Keep On Digging the Good Stuff”.

Harry began collecting art in the early 1960’s and amassed a world class collection that included many works from the “Hoosier Group”. Harry served as the President of the “Hoosier Art Solon” and generously donated paintings to art shows throughout his life.

Harry was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, Society of American Magicians, MUM and Highland Country Club where he served as Tennis Chairman. In 2010 He was made an Honorary Member of Highland where he continued to enjoy dinners and holidays.  Harry is a Member of the First Meridian Heights Presbyterian Church.