Leroy N. Rieselbach died at home on July 13, with his wife of 69 years, Helen, by his side. He was 92.
Leroy was born in 1934, the only child of Lillian Newman Rieselbach and Leslie LeRoy Rieselbach. He grew up in Milwaukee, Wis. where he enjoyed sports (tennis, wrestling, basketball) and excelled academically.
In 1952, Leroy began attending Harvard University where he met and fell in love with Helen Funk. The two married shortly after they both graduated. Leroy attended Harvard Law School for one year before deciding that his interests lay elsewhere. He transferred to Yale, where he studied political science and obtained his PhD.
In 1961, he accepted a position at Indiana University, and the couple moved to Bloomington, with their young son Erik in tow. Leroy began teaching courses in American politics at that time, and 10 years later, he became chair of the department. He held that role for six years. During his career, he spent sabbaticals in Europe and Washington DC, conducting research and working on his books. He also served as a guest lecturer in Germany for one year. Leroy loved to write and authored numerous books, primarily focused on congress and the presidency. He continued to teach both graduate and undergraduate courses until he retired as emeritus professor in 1999.
After retirement, Leroy left Indiana, and he and Helen split their time between their house on Martha’s Vineyard (where they had been spending summers for more than 30 years) and London, England. In London, they were avid theatergoers, attending plays, ballets, and musical performances. They also frequented museums and took trips to other European cities, often with friends they had made along the way.
On Martha’s Vineyard, Leroy enjoyed days at the beach, swimming, reading, and completing the New York Times crossword puzzle. He regularly worked out at the gym and was always happy to host friends and family on the Island. He was known for his good nature, his love of a questionable pun and his ability to prepare the most amazing swordfish on the grill.
Facing health issues, Leroy and Helen relocated to Brewster in 2023. Their residence was close to their eldest daughter Alice and her husband, who took excellent care of him. Despite medical challenges, Leroy continued to complete his New York Times word games and cheer on his beloved Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.
Leroy is survived by his wife Helen Funk Rieselbach, his children Erik (Ellen Silverthorne), Kurt (Joann), Alice (Brian Lenda), Kareena (Joe Tinervin), and his grandchildren Jurgen, Maya, Anton, Jarek, Danae, Ollie, and Claire.
A private family remembrance will be held at a later date.