David J. Ristau

David John Ristau Sr., 76, died peacefully on Friday February 1, 2019 on his terms, the same way he lived his life. Born October 7, 1942 to Emil and Lydia Ristau in Menasha, Wisconsin, David made a name for himself as a local star athlete excelling in every sport. A Packer fan until his final days, he passed his love of football onto his five children and hoped Aaron Rodgers would get one more ring.

David proudly served in the United States Naval Service from 1964 to 1970 during the Vietnam War, and shared his stories from his time on the submarine the USS Tecumseh with his family and friends, proudly wearing his naval ball cap every day.

David will be fondly remembered as a force in people’s lives, one who lived doing what he wanted, when he wanted. From waking his children for 4:00 AM fishing excursions, to camping trips and summer vacations in his favorite spot on the Waupaca Chain of Lakes, he tried his best to squeeze every drop out of what he enjoyed most.

David is survived by his five children: Stephanie Bender (Jeff), Katie Ristau, John Ristau, Jill Ristau, and Michelle Wozny. His grandchildren whom he loved most of all are Anna, Ian, Eva, Eliot, Jackson and Hayden. He is further survived by loving family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Emil and mother Lydia, as well as his brothers and sisters.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 16 from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM, at the Lorelei Inn, located at 1412 Webster Avenue, Green Bay, WI 54301. David asks that family and friends come to share a drink and their favorite stories, remembering him and his life.
For more information or to share a memory of David, please visit www.hovcremation.com.