James P. Risser

James P. Risser "Jim" 64, died unexpectedly at his home on January 14th.  He was the dedicated partner of James (Jim L.) Loveland.  The couple, known affectionately as “The Jim’s” shared a full life and a home in West Warwick.  He was born into the military family of the late US Air Force-retired Jameson Risser and the late Mildred (Robert) Risser in Bourne, Massachusetts.

Jim had many careers during his life including the US Navy, donut baker and Dunkin Donuts franchise manager, Westinghouse transformer repair, and lastly a Registered Nurse at the VA hospital before his retirement. 

Jim had a life-long love for poodles.  As a Standard Poodle breeder and handler, he produced many litters of AKC champion puppies under the kennel name of Beechwood Poodles. He was a past president of Poodle Club of Massachusetts and overall supporter of the Poodle breed.  To say that his dogs kept him busy is an understatement.  When anyone would ask him how he was, he would reply, “we’re just plugging along”.  “Plugging along” could be interpreted as caring for his dogs, maintaining a household, helping Jim L. prepare delicious food, or coordinating he and Jim L.’s appointments.

Through the years, his interests also included gardening, hiking, canoeing, cooking and entertaining.  Family and friends were very important to Jim!  He was known for always being there for anyone that needed his assistance with a task, big or small.  He would provide a listening ear, give some advice, help transport a dog, or offer to let you borrow something because he usually had at least one of any item that was needed.  And how about the holiday cookies and homemade caramels that he and Jim L. gave out?  They were the best!

He was preceded in death by his brothers Michael Risser and Robert Risser, and leaves behind his other siblings, Mary Gavigan of Warwick, Janine Risser (and Todd Clark) of Bennington, VT, John Risser (and beloved sister-in-law, Piya) of Stanwood, WA, Judy Richer (and Richard Richer) of Deland, FL, Margaret Allaire (and George Allaire) of Coventry, and Maureen Risser of West Warwick.  He also leaves behind many well-loved nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and nephews.  His eldest niece and Goddaughter Valerie Boucher became his steady and special confidant.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Poodle Rescue Connecticut, Inc. PO Box 188 Naugatuck, CT 06770 or online at http://www.poodlerescuect.org.

A celebration of his life will be held in late summer.

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