Rev. Gene Risch

Herman Eugene Risch ("Gene"), 82, passed on January 28, 2013, in Clarkdale, Arizona. Gene was born on June 10, 1930, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Herman and Laura Risch. After graduating from the University of Cincinnati, he studied theology at United Theological Seminary in Dayton and graduated Cum Laude. Gene had a lifelong service to the Christian Church even before being called to the ministry in 1957. While in Cincinnati he was involved in the Southeastern Ecumenical Movement for a year as the Executive Director working with 17 churches. His real love, though, was for his local churches where he preached and counseled. Gene was a pastor in Ohio for 23 years, and continued to minister as he and his wife moved and eventually settled in Arizona. Gene was a hugger. He was a compassionate, selfless man who gave himself to God and helping others. He loved to play the organ wide open, camp with his family, play card games, share stories, and, of course, tell jokes. Gene was an active pastor until the day he passed away. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Glad; his two daughters, Sherry and Carolyn; and his granddaughter. A Memorial Service will be at Mountain View Untited Methodist Church in Cottonwood on Friday. Holy Communion at 11am, memorial service at 11:30 followed by a light lunch. An online guestbook is available at www.westcottfuneralhome.com