Robert Ristau
December 26, 1928 ~ August 20, 2011
Robert "Bob" Ristau passed away this past Saturday August 20, 2011 at the age of 82. Bob was born in Chicago and was the only child of Gustave Ristau and Caroline Bankowski. After growing up on the south side of Chicago, Bob joined the Navy and did two carrier tours during the Korean War. He eventually reached the rank of Commander. While stationed in Corpus Christi Texas, Bob met and married Guinelle McDougal. They proceeded to have four boys together. They moved back to Chicago where Bob attained an undergraduate degree from Loyola University and then completed an MBA from the University of Chicago. After a long career in Human Resources for various multi-national corporations, he settled with his second wife Billie Jean in New Braunfels Texas where they both enjoyed their retirement years living in the Hill Country and enjoying the friendship of many good friends. Bob "The Tennis Czar", an avid tennis fan and player, always boasted about his winning record against all his tennis buddies in New Braunfels!! He also enjoyed many other sports and outdoor activities, along with playing cards and hanging out with his friends.
Bob was preceded by his first wife Guinnelle, his second wife Billie Jean, and his oldest son, James Anthony. Bob is survived by three sons: Bill Ristau and his wife Emy, Bob Ristau, Tommy Ristau and his wife Radha, and two step children, Karen Rorick and Terri Davidson. Bob is also survived by two grandchildren; Jennifer Ristau-Helvert and Adam Daniel Ristau.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at St. Thomas Catholic Church, 180 St Thomas Drive, Canyon Lake, Texas 78133. A luncheon will be held following the service at St. Thomas Church. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations shall be made to the New Braunfels Public Library 700 East Common Street, New Braunfels 78130.
I just found out about Bob’s death and am sorry for your loss. I thought the world of Bob and enjoyed his company tremendously. I miss the times of playing tennis,cards and discussing politics while listening to music. He and BJ were always gracious host to my family. He will truly be missed.