Richard Carl Kristoff, "Rick", 75 of Montville, Ohio passed away peacefully Friday December 22,2023. He was in his home surrounded by family, music, tears and laughter as he joined his Savior in eternity.
Rick was born July 16, 1948 in Euclid Ohio, to Ben and Frances Kristoff. He grew up in Newbury with his older brother Ben and younger sister Nancy. He was full of mischief, always had a twinkle in his eye and captured the hearts of everyone he met. He graduated from Newbury High school in 1966 and joined the Plumbers Local 55 until he retired in 2010. Rick took his vocation very seriously and had extreme pride in his work.
Even though they were not married for life, Rick was so grateful to his former spouse Elizabeth ("Pinky" Fix) Godwin for his greatest treasures: his three adoring daughters "Wendy, Becky and Jenny". The Kristoff couple and kids had many wonderful memories growing up in the close-knit Kiwanis Lake Community with neighbors and nearby family.
He loved helping others and 'hoped that those closest to him, felt his love for them.' He was as genuine as they come and never judged others or had a bad thing to say about anyone. Rick faced many challenges through his life yet inspired those around him with his strength, resilience and smile.
Rick loved being in nature and sitting on his back patio and feeding birds. He had a passion for recycling, it was his part to ensure his Grandchildren had a beautiful world. He loved music and dancing. He danced to his own beat and everyone will remember how he became one with the music every chance he got. He was proud of his Slovenian heritage and appreciated a good garlicy Slovenian sausage.
Rick always dreamed big and worked hard at making those dreams a reality. One of Rick's greatest honors was owning his house "the Cave" for over 20 years. The Cave is a functional sculpture that was created in 1970 by Wayne Trapp. The Cave and Rick were made for each other, with the cave offering endless opportunities for Rick to use his creativity. Rick loved to share the Cave by hosting parties for friends and family. He would even give tours to curious passers-by if they asked. Throughout the years his home was featured on MTV, HGTV, and in many articles. He would say: "I never knew I could fall in love with an inanimate object. But I did."
You could often find Rick visiting at the homes of his daughters' or sister. Nothing kept "Grandpa Rick" away from showing up and cheering for his grandchildren in their sports and activities. He could be the life of the party or could quietly sit back and observe his family with joy. He prioritized close relationships with his family, neighbors and friends until his passing and will be forever remembered for his charm and wit.
Rick is survived by his:
Daughter Wendy Kristoff Beery and her husband Kevin, and their children: Laura, Eric and Ellie.
Daughter Rebecca Kristoff Buddenberg and her three children and five grandchildren: Cassie (Arp) Mcdougall and husband Joe and children Ella, Liam and Bailey; Nate Arp and wife Ann and daughter Matilda; Joe Arp and wife Sabrina and daughter Sadie Jo.
Daughter Jennifer Kristoff-Miller and husband Ryan and their two sons Ryan Lloyd and Joshua Richard
Sister Nancy (Kristoff) Southern and husband Conrad
Nieces and Nephews: Ben, Lori, David, Michael and Michelle.
Many special cousins, great nieces and nephews, and his extended "Fix Family" and close friends that he considered family.
Rick is Predeceased by his loving parents Ben and Frances (Klein) Kristoff and his big brother Ben Kristoff II, whom he looked up to.
Please join us as we celebrate Rick's life and love, this Thursday, December 28, 2023 4pm – 7pm at Steele Mansion Inn and Gathering Hub, 348 Mentor Ave., Painesville, Ohio
Instead of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude's. ( www.stjude.org )
Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Road, Geneva, Ohio assisted the family with arrangements.
www.LakeErieCrematory.com