Gerhart "Kookie" Ristau, Sr.

Gerhart “Kookie” John Ristau Sr. joined his beloved soulmate Debbe Bologna in Heaven on March 25th, 2024.  We think there’s a good chance that he’s making some plans and maps for God at this very moment.

He was born to the late Gerhart Ristau and Honnour Hackett on August 21st, 1946 in Norwalk, Connecticut.  The youngest of three by a number of years, he was a wild child with a heart of gold from the start.  He was frequently in trouble of the mischievous kind.  But with his beautiful voice and natural rhythm, he sang and danced and loved life even in those early years.

At 18, Kookie joined the Navy and commenced a life long passion for serving this great country.  He was extremely proud of his service and that of all service members.  Kookie became an active member of the VFW (including serving as QuarterMaster of the New Milford post), Catholic War Vets, Patriot Guard, Rolling Flags, American Legion, and numerous other patriotic causes, and served until his last day. 

During his time in the Navy and thereafter, Kookie became a Master Electrician.  He directed maintenance for a government-contracted facility for 42 years (owned by Perkin-Elmer/Raytheon/Goodrich).  He was extremely smart, talented, and diligent, and earned government security clearance as he supported NASA and other agency projects.

Kookie was a motorcycle biker, an avid outdoorsman and loved to do anything that required significant energy or skill.  Motorcycle rides, fishing, golfing, dancing and Zumba were part of his everyday life. 

More important than anything, Kookie loved people and life.  His sense of humor was unparalleled and he loved a party like no one else.  He was a loving, fun and extremely thoughtful Dad, Poppa/Pops, husband, uncle, son, brother, cousin and in-law. He had hundreds of true friends – not just acquaintances.  He believed in charity and acted on it.  Kookie ironically lived every day like it was his last.  His wonderful example is something that we can all work toward achieving.

Kookie’s memory is carried ever forward by his children: René Celia Ristau (Chris McCorry), and G. John Ristau Jr. (Kristina); in addition to his grandchildren: John Michael Ristau, Brianna Faith Ristau, and Allegra Sean McCorry; and without limitation, his nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, best friends, buddies, classmates, co-workers and so many more.

A Celebration of Life gathering for Kookie will be held at Danbury Memorial Funeral Home (117 South Street) on April, 6th 2024 beginning at 11:00 to 1:00pm with formal activities starting at noon followed by a prayer service at 12:30pm . A reception will follow at the Danbury VFW hall.

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