We received an email from Alan Ramsay (1960F) alerting us to the fact that Bruce “Riz” Risien (1965G) had suddenly passed away in Cape Town on Saturday, 10 February.  This was very unexpected.  He was still working as medical rep for MEDorno (Pty) Ltd as Sales Agent and actively involved in the Western Province Cricket Club (WPCC) at the time of his passing.

Bruce was born on 18 January 1948 and lived a full life that spanned a variety of interests and involvements. After attending Bishops, he spent most of his working life as a long-standing medical rep. His 'club' life was impressive.  He belonged to the  Western Province Cricket Club; Kelvin Grove; Villagers Football Club and the Rondebosch Golf Club, where he was a regular member of “The Sammers” – a Sat morning golf group.

He was particulary active at WPCC where he was the Chairman of The Oaks - a “club within a club”  where current and past sporting celebrities SA and international were invited to present talks and take part in panel discussions for members.  The following notice was published by the WPCC shortly after his passing:

It is with a great deal of shock and sadness that I hereby notify our Club Membership that Bruce Risien has “answered the sunset call” (as he always put it).

To say that no one saw that coming would be an understatement. Bruce and Jean thoroughly enjoyed their time in the Committee Bay on Tuesday evening, and they were looking forward to being at Newlands for the SA20 FINAL this evening. Bruce and I had been in regular contact over the last few days trying to secure a few new speakers for The Oaks meetings, as well as making sure that The Oaks trophy for “Team of the Year” had our new logo on it. Last night he was in good spirits at the Members attendance and Joker draws.

Bruce was very meticulous - and every “operation” he was involved in was expected to be delivered with military precision – and a good joke. Bruce was a Vice President of WPCC and Chairman of The Oaks Club, having previously being Club Captain (1988 – 1995) and an EXCO member for many years. He was instrumental in arranging a 40+ year reunion for the successful 1981/2 cricket teams which we hosted on Day 2 of the recent Test match. A memorable function indeed.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will surely remember you Bruce. Thanks for your efforts and the many happy memories. Rest well.

Steve Palframan
Chairman WPCC – on behalf of EXCO

Another passion of his was the Cape Garrison Artillery.  He was an enthusiastic member and organised the annual Military Dinner at Kelvin for more than 20 years.

Bruce was also a devoted family man.  He was marreid to his wife Jean for almost half a century (49 years this year) and they had 3 children.  The children are Duncan, Michelle and Craig.

Our sincerest condolences to Jean, the children and extended family who will surely miss the colourful and energetic person that Bruce was.