Morris Risa

Morris "Morri" Risa was born on June 8, 1944 in Fort Dodge Iowa. He passed peacefully on May 28, 2026. He grew up in Fort Dodge, attended Fort Dodge Schools. His father was a Norwegian cabinet maker and his mother a seamstress. He has two sisters, Sandra and Lori that he was always protective of. He found brotherhood with Sandy's life long partner, Maurice Breen and Lori's husband Greg Ayala. He was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

He was hard-working, crafty, and a businessman. He was known for his furniture making, cabinetry, and hardwood flooring. He made a career of carpentry and operated Risa Construction and later Scandinavian Woodshop outside of Somers. Many homes built or renovated in the 80's, 90's, & early 2000's in Webster & Calhoun County used lumber from his sawmill. His claim to fame was sawing Iowa's largest curly maple tree with his good friend, Sam. At the end of his career he built log homes.

To many his sense of pride was his business, but to those who truly knew him, he was a provider and a family man. His two daughters were his sunshine and he always wanted the best for them. He instilled strong values of honesty, loyalty, and independence.

To those who knew Morri personally he was charming, charismatic, savvy, a lover, and a fighter (in his early years). He took great honor in his recovery and relationship to AA. Morri was a giver of second chances. Countless members of AA have been touched by his kindness and generosity. He gave them hope, friendship, and often times employment. He had high expectations in everything he did and expected the same from those in his life.

He spent his retirement in Branson, Missouri in a log cabin built and designed by him. This was a dream come true. He made new friends to tell stories, break bread, and build memories with. Then settled in Rockwell City where he continued to tinker in his shop. He had great neighbors and they looked out for each other.

He was proceeded in death by his mother Margaret, his father Sigurd, and Maurice Breen (Sandy's partner).

He survived by his sisters Sandy Risa, Lori Ayala (Greg), daughter Maureen, grandchild Madison, daughter Jennifer Sorensen, grandchild Malik, his friends from AA, the lumber and logging community, his friends in Branson, and his "girls" that were his caretakers at the end.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date by family.