4800 E Indian School Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85018
RISI, JOSEPH
Joseph Risi, 66 of Paradise Valley, AZ, surrounded by his loving family, peacefully went to be with the Lord on June 27, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital on November 8, 1955 to Giuseppe and Rita Risi.
Joseph graduated from ASU with a bachelor’s degree but really, he had started his lifelong career before this accomplishment at the young age of 17. He was a successful and self-taught real estate developer specializing in both commercial and residential real estate. Early on in his career he developed American West Homes which later evolved in to Risi Companies and Risi Homes. He was very proud of these accomplishments and worked hard at it for his whole life.
Although Joe was dedicated to his career, his heart truly belonged to his faith and his family. He was a servant to the Lord, a devout Catholic, and deeply valued his relationship with the Marian order of priests. The Marian Fathers recognize Joseph Risi as the primary benefactor of the foundation of the Mission of the Marian Fathers in Kibeho, Rwanda. His friendship provided the possibility to build the main chapel in the Cana Center, the St. Joseph pilgrim House, Stations of the Cross dedicated to his mother, Rita Risi, The St. Gabriel Convent of the Nuns of the Annunciation, and the hermitage dedicated to Father Ambrosi. In December 2016, the highest recognition that can be given by the Marian Fathers, the Medal of Saint Stanislaus, was awarded to Joseph as the sign of deep gratitude for his ongoing role as the primary benefactor of the Mission of the Marian Fathers in Kibeho.
Joseph made it a point to share his deeply rooted faith with both the world and his beloved family. He will be forever missed and remembered by all who knew him.
Joe is survived by his loving wife of 25 years Helena Risi; children Christopher Risi, Matthew Risi, Lucas Risi, Maxwell Risi, and Joseph Risi; brothers John Risi and Marc Cain; Aunt Carolyn Harvell and Auntie Elaine Danielson, as well as many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Giuseppe and Rita Risi.
A Visitation will be held on Friday, July 22, 2022 from 4:00-7:00 P.M. with a Rosary prayed at 6:00 P.M. at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd., in Phoenix. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 2312 E. Campbell Ave., in Phoenix. Burial will immediately follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th St., in Phoenix. Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Helena and Sons, we are greatly sorry for your tremendous loss and pray hard for your comfort and healing in the days to come. Angels and Saints are gently weeping for this loss of Joe, a true minister to the many lives he touched during his life. We were beyond blessed to have been friends with him, and cherish the moments we shared since our meeting in 1986.
Peace!
I am saddened to learn of Joes passing. Early on in my solo consulting endeavors, I was fortunate to be hired by Joe to assist him in a development in the Arcadia area of Phoenix. Joe was driven, inciteful, thoughtful and kind. I greatly appreciated his friendship. My heartfelt condolences to Joe’s family and friends. May God have mercy on his soul. Rest in Peace Joe.
I am so sorry to be writing these condolences. Joe was a friend of mine for over 30 years. He was dedicated to his family and his job. He could be a tough net to crack, but was always open to hear what you had to say. I will miss him greatly and I know his family will too. I know his family is grieving, and I for their loss. He will be missed. Rest in peace..
Our sincerest condolences go out to The Risi family, May God shower you with grace during this difficult time. Joe was a wonderful friend, open, honest and caring, very sensitive to the world. With love, Frank and Angie Ripullo and family
Our sincerest condolences on the loss of Joseph. We enjoyed our brief acquaintance with him during our CopperState adventures and know he will be missed by family and friends.
Helena and family
We are truly sorry for the Loss of Joe
We are thankful we will see him again in heaven
But we feel honored and blessed to have Known him at BCYC
Many hugs and lets stay in touch
Stuart and I would love to take you out to lunch or dinner next time we are in town
Hugs
Helena and family, please accept my condolences for the loss of Joe. I know he will be missed by so many and there are many on the other side celebrating his entrance into eternity. Many Blessings and peace.
You are a blessed child of God, Joseph. May you rest in the glory of the Lord.
Our sincere condolences.