Thread:Merrystar/@comment-5157528-20120718011334/@comment-11001-20120718020738

Generally it isn't necessary to remove the rights of the founder, unless that person is abusing them. In fact leaving them can often be helpful if they return because then you can work together cooperatively.

That said, if you have some particular reason to assume they would be hostile to you if they returned, then you can make a request at Special:Contact.