Lori Louise Risser, 46, was suddenly and unexpectedly taken from us during a family holiday in Europe. She departed our earthly presence and entered eternal life on July 16, 2023, her final days filled with joyous moments shared with her devoted husband and cherished children.
Lori was born on October 6, 1976, in Scottsdale, AZ, to the late Mr. Harley Lisherness and Dr. Nancy Lisherness. She was the younger sister to Lisa, growing up in a family where she held profound love and admiration for her father, Harley, who sadly passed away in 2022.
Her academic journey led her from Kiva Elementary to Saint Francis Xavier for middle school, and then to Xavier College Preparatory for high school. She furthered her studies at the University of San Francisco, earning her Bachelor of Science in business administration.
Lori met her future husband, Eric Risser, during the first week of her freshman year at a Xavier/Brophy mixer. During this time, she also bravely battled Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Displaying formidable resilience, Lori fought cancer twice in her life; first as a teenager, and later as a mother, dealing with the repercussions of Hodgkin’s and battling thyroid cancer.
Following college, Lori and Eric embarked on the blissful journey of marriage. Their union was blessed with the miraculous arrival of three precious children; Bella, Annie, and Harley. These were her proudest accomplishments and remain her enduring legacy.
Lori's family life overflowed with love, grace, and joy. She was a philanthropic spirit, generously and often anonymously supporting various charities and causes. Lori devoted much of her time to volunteer work at her children's schools and initiatives aimed at enhancing education, addressing food scarcity, and improving the lives of animals.
A passionate advocate for animals, Lori never hesitated to provide shelter to those in need. She transformed her home into a loving sanctuary for her family and rescue animals, with her residence often bustling with pets of all kinds.
Lori had a gentle demeanor, a generous heart, and innate grace. Although reserved, those privileged enough to know her were treated to her sweet and playful nature, as well as her delightful sense of humor. Lori reveled in spending time with family and friends, particularly at the beach, dancing, and making her family smile. Her playfulness was contagious.
Lori will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her husband, best friend, and high school sweetheart, Eric Risser, her ‘miracle children’: Isabella, Annabella, and Harley, her mother Dr. Nancy Lisherness, stepmother Heidi “LaLa” Lisherness, sister Lisa Lisherness, and her adored niece, Lola Robinson. Her warmth, elegance, beauty, and kindness will also be greatly missed by her in-laws, Dr. and Mrs. Christian Risser, as well as numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Aug 5th 2023, 9:30 am, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 4715 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85012. Graveside Committal service will be held at 11:30 am, Green Acres Cemetery, 401 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85257. A light reception will be held At Green Acres Mortuary following the Committal Service.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.greenacresmortuary.net for the Risser family.
