Robert “Bob” Ristau, Jr
April 1st, 1953 - January 21st, 2024
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Bob's Obituary
Robert H. “Bob” Ristau, Jr. 70, of Benton Harbor, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at Hanson Hospice Center, Stevensville, with his family at his side.
Bob was born on April 1, 1953, to Robert H. Sr. and Elaine (Rutherford) Ristau in Niles, MI. He graduated from Niles High School, class of 1971 and continued his education through Southwestern Michigan College and Michigan State University. Bob was musically inclined, and he played the trombone. His career path led him to an EMT-P Certification and served as a talented Paramedic IC for Medic 1 Ambulance Service. Bob concluded his career with Pier 33 in boat sales. Along with his professional endeavors, he showcased his talents as a skilled woodworker.
His life was completely altered when he met a cute Registered Nurse at Berrien General Hospital. She more than took his breath away, and he and Valerie were married on December 2, 1984. She was the love of his life. Bob & Valerie rehabilitated 14 homes, traveled & loved their life together. There was so much to this man called Bob. He had an amazing wit and sense of humor. Captain Bob’s greatest passion was undeniably being on the water boating. We are grateful for the time with him and will cherish all the memories. He was loved passionately by all who knew him and will be missed greatly. Ship Ahoy, Captain Bob. The Best is yet to come.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Valerie Ristau; daughter, Lori (Mats) Aaboe; grandson, Erik Aaboe; sisters, Katherine (Raymond, Jr.) Chandler, Becky (Glenn) Sizemore, Vicki (Randy) Salik, Peggy (Rick) Zicarelli and Terrie Hunter; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and great-nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Ristau, Sr.; mother, Elaine Peterson and sister, Cynthia Boyer.
Visitation will take place from noon – 2 pm on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph with a celebration of life service following at 2 pm. Burial will take place at 11 am on Monday, January 29 at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Bob was born on April 1, 1953, to Robert H. Sr. and Elaine (Rutherford) Ristau in Niles, MI. He graduated from Niles High School, class of 1971 and continued his education through Southwestern Michigan College and Michigan State University. Bob was musically inclined, and he played the trombone. His career path led him to an EMT-P Certification and served as a talented Paramedic IC for Medic 1 Ambulance Service. Bob concluded his career with Pier 33 in boat sales. Along with his professional endeavors, he showcased his talents as a skilled woodworker.
His life was completely altered when he met a cute Registered Nurse at Berrien General Hospital. She more than took his breath away, and he and Valerie were married on December 2, 1984. She was the love of his life. Bob & Valerie rehabilitated 14 homes, traveled & loved their life together. There was so much to this man called Bob. He had an amazing wit and sense of humor. Captain Bob’s greatest passion was undeniably being on the water boating. We are grateful for the time with him and will cherish all the memories. He was loved passionately by all who knew him and will be missed greatly. Ship Ahoy, Captain Bob. The Best is yet to come.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Valerie Ristau; daughter, Lori (Mats) Aaboe; grandson, Erik Aaboe; sisters, Katherine (Raymond, Jr.) Chandler, Becky (Glenn) Sizemore, Vicki (Randy) Salik, Peggy (Rick) Zicarelli and Terrie Hunter; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and great-nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Ristau, Sr.; mother, Elaine Peterson and sister, Cynthia Boyer.
Visitation will take place from noon – 2 pm on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph with a celebration of life service following at 2 pm. Burial will take place at 11 am on Monday, January 29 at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
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