Rick Kissell Obituary

February 16, 2019

Gerald Heath wrote a sympathy message

“What a shock! My Mother and I are always saying that we could always die tomorrow, and Rick's death is a reminder of how real that is. Although I didn't hang out with Rick too much during and since school, I considered him a dear friend and held him in high regard, honor, integrity and skill. I was in awe and support of the different activist activities that he was continuously doing, knowing that although I believed in them, I couldn't come close to how well he did it, and hoped my subtle support could help. Sometimes he would contact me and I helped. A few times he had me over to the house to fix some computer or other technical issue, and I considered it a privilege to help him in his mission. Although I am not a ham radio operator, I go to those fests and shared that technical background with Rick- a communicator of many modes- I didn't always remember his street address, but could always spot the house on Oklahoma Av with the Ham radio antenna. We had great get togethers with the old SM High School group and he kept us all in the loop with his yearly family picture and other emails. Rick will be missed in many ways, but I know, many people's lives, especially in the Milwaukee area, are better due to Rick's diligence, even if they do not know that his life touched them. James Lisowski (So. Milw., WI.)”

February 15, 2019

Gerald Heath wrote a sympathy message

“"I am so sorry for the sad loss of a dear friend of longstanding; sad for his familiesloss, for our loss, everyones untimely unexpected loss!!! As a friend since high-school, my brothers, friends & I are geographically widespread, & like many men, not as in touch as we could gave been, putting off getting together, thinking: maybe next year... Let the people in your life know you love them; I hope they feel it everyday and that I tell them as often as I can! (Could have been me 1.5 years ago!)🖤🕊☮🥀🌹 Note from his Family: “While there is a lower class, I am in it, while there is a criminal element, I am of it, and while there is a soul in prison, I am not free.” ― Eugene V. Debs "Dear family, friends, colleagues, and comrades, It is with our deepest sorrow that we inform you of the death of our beloved Rick Kissell on February 10, 2019 at the age of 63 from complications following surgery. A celebration of his life will take place on Wednesday, February 20, 4-7 PM, with the eulogy beginning at 5PM, at the Bruskiewitz Funeral Home, 5355 W Forest Home Ave, Milwaukee. We request you bring your thoughts, prayers, and fondest memories of Rick over the years. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Peace Action-Wisconsin, 1001 E Keefe Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53212 or Voces de la Frontera, 1027 S 5th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204. Rick was an intelligent, passionate, and caring person filled with purpose and a great sense of humor. His generosity, respect for all, and quick wit will be deeply missed. A graduate of South Milwaukee High School and a former student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he was a pioneer in court interpreter services in the Milwaukee area and dedicated three decades to his chosen profession. He was active in setting guidelines and training to improve interpreting and translation throughout the Wisconsin Court System. He was also very active in the peace, socialist, civil liberties, immigrant, civil rights, and labor movements. An avid reader, Rick loved discussing leftist politics, educating others on Milwaukee’s socialist heritage, communicating on his ham radio, enjoying live guitar concerts with his wife, and sharing donated books and documentaries with libraries and jails. He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years Anna Maria “Annie” Espinoza, children René and Paul, stepson Lucas Alvarez, cousin James (Evelyn) Spice, aunt Virginia (the late William) Thomas, along with cousins, extended family, and friends. “Signing off, WB9GYT.” [Contact René Espinoza Kissell for more information]"”