William Joseph Riseling's Obituary
William Joseph Riseling (Billy Reynolds)Cherished heart,Yours was the strength and wisdom forever guiding us along our paths, and it was this light and wisdom shared that gave to us the most precious gift of all: a father's enduring love.Beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, William Joseph Riseling, born on January 30, 1922 in Yakima, Washington, passed peacefully from us on August 26, 2006 in his home inWalnut Creek, CA, surrounded by loving family. Yours was a life filled with memories and wonderful stories of working and learning to fly at theOaklandAirportfrom the late 30's through the early 40's. You spoke happily of obtaining your private pilot's license in 1939, 60571, and this even before you had your drivers' license. At the aspiring age of 16 you were invited to sing and play your guitar on KYA radio, and later became known as Billy Reynolds, performing with Dude Martin's Roundup Gang as a lead singer and rhythm guitarist in the late 40's through the early 50's. In the early 50's you also starred in a live television program shown on Saturday mornings called 'Pet Life' featuring famous pets and their owners, which made nationwide news by presenting a live “monkey wedding” that featured a simian bride and groom along with their attendants and monkey and chimp guests. Well we remember the various funny stories shared from the many shows you hosted then, including guest-hosting on special occasions the children's popular Mayor Art television show. Later in life you worked with the San Ramon Post Office and finally at Walnut Creek's Bedford Gallery as a volunteer and docent.Within these wonderful memories shared, your generous heart touched many throughout your life. And, it is your gentle spirit and your great love of books, art, history, and music that we shall always remember and that shall always inspire us. Your precious love shall forever remain within our hearts and lives, dearest one.
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