RISO, EUNICE

Eunice Riso was born on February 16, 1932, in Milford, CT, to Thomas and Mildred Riso. Eunice graduated with the Class of 1950, from Milford High School, and then attended the University of Connecticut majoring in Physical Education. Eunice’s career and devotion to community service began in her hometown when she was 16, where she organized recreational services for women. Eunice moved to Visalia, CA, where she was the mainstay of leisure and community services where she developed the senior citizen program; developed programs for persons with disabilities; expanded multi-cultural programs and services; directed the design and construction of a senior center; was an active participant with the community to design community swimming pools and courts; was active in the expansion of the Visalia Convention Center; developed a volunteer service program; and developed numerous city parks. She was instrumental in developing programs to help the handicapped community, served on the Visalia Emergency Aid Council, and the Visalia Creative Arts Center for the Handicapped Board of Directors. Eunice was a charter member in the formation of the Tulare County Commission on the Status of Women which founded the first shelter for victims of domestic violence. Her other volunteer work also included working with the Girl Scouts, and serving on the YMCA board. Eunice was certified by the California Board of Park & Recreation profession, served as District President, and was a State Representative to the national board; Soroptimist International of Visalia, President; Amateur Softball Association, National Commissioner; and the California Association for Retarded Children. She received many awards over the years for her participation and contribution to the advancement of women. She received the Soroptimist Visalia and regional “Women Helping Women Award “and was the Visalia Chamber of Commerce “Woman of the Year in 1983”. Eunice was named to “Who’s Who of American Women” in 1980. She was preceded in death by her best friend and traveling companion, Geraldine Murphy. Eunice is survived by her brothers, Tom and wife Diane, and Bruce and wife Barbara; sister, Lois and husband Henry; and her nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held Wednesday, September 26 at 11 a.m. at Kings Highway Cemetery in Milford, CT. A reception for family and friends will immediately follow in Milford. Memorials may be made to Family Services of Tulare County, 815 West Oak St, Visalia CA, 93291; to the Visalia Parks & Recreation Foundation, P.O. Box 1032, Visalia, CA 93278; or a charity of the donor’s choice.