Brad A. Riesel

Town of Herkimer - Brad A. Riesel, 49, of the town of Herkimer passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday April 26, 2021.

Brad was born on July 27, 1971 in Ilion, NY. He attended Herkimer High School (class of 1989) and participated in wrestling and football. Brad was a United States Navy Veteran and worked as a carpenter for most of his life.  

Brad was a member of the NRA and the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club. He was also an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed tending his gardens. As a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan, Brad could be found watching the game inside his “Party Barn.” The absolute pride and joy of Brad’s life was spending time with his friends and family.   

On May 30, 2010, he was united in marriage to Bridget Wellington at the Indian Castle Church in the town of Danube. Over the years, Brad and Bridget dedicated themselves to building their dream home, lovingly referred to as “Riesel Ridge.” 

Survivors include his loving wife of 11 years, Bridget; his mother Lynda (Layaw) and stepfather Anthony Fosella; daughter Alanah Riesel (Randy Brokaw) and newborn grandson Bodhi Brokaw; son Alexander Riesel; step-daughter Rachelle Willoughby (Frank Berbrick); daughter-in-laws Amy and Danielle Allen (Josh Lord); brother Chad Riesel (Stacey Woods); step-sister Estelle Fosella (Gary Smith); in-laws Ralph Wellington (Anna), Butch Wellington (Suzanne Comins) Cissy Rando, David Wellington (Kitty Pinkham), Sonny Culver (Tracy); several uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous friends including those he considered his brothers: Ward Seeley Jr., Brock Morra, Mike Sportello, PJ Marusic, Jeff Combs, and Gary (Dip) Phillips. Brad’s family would like to say thank you to Ronnie Bongiorno for all his help and support during these last few weeks.  

He was predeceased by his father Alan Riesel, his friend and brother-in-law Kirk Rando, his beloved step-son Ian Wellington, and his dear cousin Lesa Dickenson.

In keeping with the wishes of Brad's family, a memorial service will take place at a time to be announced. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of the Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to NBT Bank), 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY. In lieu of flowers, Brad’s family asks that  memorial contributions be made to the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club, PO Box 308, Herkimer, NY 13350.

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