Marc David Isenberg

Marc Isenberg was an Eagle Scout long before he earned that honor. He helped people in so many ways, from providing free legal services, to encouraging patients and providing moral support while he himself was undergoing chemotherapy at MD Anderson. He died on March 18, 2017, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He faced this with dignity and determination.

He was the oldest son of Nathan and Esther Isenberg, born January 10, 1949 in Houston, Texas. He grew up in Galena Park and Galveston before moving to Austin, where he earned his degree in psychology from the University of Texas. He graduated from the University of Houston, Bates College of Law, in May 1974. In addition to his legal education, he developed the most enduring and worthwhile friendships of his life.

He practiced for years as a litigator and insurance defense attorney before finding personal and professional fulfillment representing juveniles impacted by the justice system. He volunteered to speak to juveniles in their schools about their legal rights and the legal consequences of their conduct, and believed that juveniles were entitled to the best defense he could provide.

He was socially aware and hated bullying, intolerance and pretention. He had the ability to cut to the heart of a problem, and he had a unique sense of humor. He always said it cost nothing to be kind to people.

Marc was a scuba diver, hiked the Grand Canyon, fished, and jumped from a perfectly good plane at 10,400 feet. He loved thunder runs with his friends to casinos, travel, cooking, and learning to play the guitar.

Marc leaves a loyal group of lifelong friends referred to as his “band of brothers”, nieces, a nephew, and his wife and law partner, Miriam Riskind.

In memory of Marc, donations may be made to MD Anderson or charity of your choice. And to all of you reading this, life truly is short. Find your passion, your love, get out there, live, and as Marc always said, “let’er rip.”