Scott Paul Risseeuw

Scott was born in San Diego and grew up in McLean, Virginia. He received an engineering degree from Duke University, then returned to San Diego to serve in the Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer. After graduating from the UVA Darden School of Business with a MBA, he spent his career in tech sales.

Scott was the life of the party. He frequently wore bright and bold colors and patterns, living life to the fullest. He was well-known for his self-made margarita machine. He loved the outdoors and could often be found fishing, boating/sailing, hiking, and skiing/snowboarding. He also loved what we called “Red Coke” (Original Coca-Cola), cars, and collecting t-shirts from places he visited.

Scott made the powerful decision to help others through organ donation and offer the gift of life. He was an avid listener of reggae music and Bob Marley, which was beautifully played during his Honor Walk and in his final moments in the operating room. Following his passing, successful liver and lung transplants were performed. In this way, despair did not win the day, hope won.

Scott was and will always be loved by his parents, family, and friends, whom he loved in return. He is survived by his children Alexa and Zach (and their mom Reija), his parents Janet and Hugh, his second mom Debbie, his siblings Jane, Stephen, and Lisa, and many extended family members.

Scott ultimately lost his battle with mental illness, having suffered from Bipolar Disorder for over 20 years. We feel it is important to share in efforts of reducing stigma surrounding mental health as well as spreading awareness: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955.

May his memory encourage us all to live healthy and happy lives.