Marin Grey
from Orwell, OH wrote on December 2, 2025
David was always such a kind and gentle presence. I knew him many years ago, during a time in my life when I was shy and unsure of myself, and he always made me feel welcomed and at ease. He had a warmth about him that stayed with me long after life led everyone in different directions. I will always remember his kindness and the quiet understanding he showed toward me.
I was saddened to learn of his passing and wanted to offer my heartfelt condolences to his family. May his memory be a blessing and may you all find comfort in knowing the positive impact he had on those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Barb Malatino
from Palm Harbor wrote on July 14, 2025
To the Ristoff Family: I was so saddened to hear of David's passing. The obituary you have is spot on–not much to add for a great man who was decent, kind, smart, ethical, and most important of all, loved his family above all things, and held to his own core values, morals, and Christianity. I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. Try to remember the fun times and the times to come, as Revelation 21:3,4 says: With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: โLook! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them.โฏ And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.โ There are not many in the world left who have the makings of a man like your husband, father, grandfather, etc. –so much to so many. Please accept my loving and sincere condolences and sympathy for your deep pain.
DOROTHY HALL
from NEW PORT RICHEY wrote on February 3, 2025
Just found out about David's passing and would like to extend my deepest condolences to his family. David was such a great man and an excellent attorney. His expertise in law was only exceeded by his caring personality. I am grateful to have known him and to have considered him a friend. Prayers to all who loved and miss this great man.
Barry Mills Prickett
from Sacramento CA wrote on October 23, 2024
David Ristoff was exceptional in every way. From my perspective, he was an amazing husband and father and, to me, an amazing friend. Witty and brilliant, patient and not sometimesโDavid set a bar too high. Macedonian to the core and strong to the end, I was lucky to know him well and will miss him tremendously.
John Berry
from Abilene Texas wrote on August 7, 2024
I had the privilege of working with David many years while he headed up the Tampa Branch Office . Great attorney , great leader , strong but so so kind . I send my condolences to his family and friends . I will miss him greatly !
My sincerest sympathies to Dave's family. Dave was one of my best high school pals and we had many fun times in and out of school. He was also one of the smartest individuals I have known in my life. Sliding his paper over enough for me to copy answers in Senior English greatly helped me through that course! I may not have seen him in later years but he would come to mind quite frequently and I enjoyed the chance to reminisce about old times. Vaya Con Dios old pal.
Dana Shaw
from Greenland, NH wrote on July 4, 2024
I was crushed to hear the news, I had known Dave since high school and we had played our first band together at Akron U. Fortunately, we both got better. It was fantastic to play with Dave again a few years ago, we were all hoping for another reunion. All my love to Darla and the family, God Bless.
David was a man of unparalleled wisdom and kindness. The very first time I met him I could tell how busy and zoned in he was on one of his cases, but that didnโt stop him from dropping everything and starting up a conversation with me. We talked about law, some obscure case I was having trouble with, and we talked about our families. He showed unparalleled knowledge and professionalism regarding my esoteric legal dilemma and, even more importantly, his face absolutely lit up when discussing his family. I wish I could properly articulate the type of beaming love and affection his eyes and mannerisms had shown to me, but itโs beyond me. Itโs likely beyond words. He was a wonderful person and I will miss him dearly. Iโm so sorry for everyoneโs loss. Truly and deeply sorry.
I was fortunate to know David as a member of the West Pasco Bar Association where we served on the board together for many years. I am thankful to have known him and for his years of service to our community. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
We send our heartfelt sympathy to cousin Deborah and all of her brother's family members. May he rest in peace in the arms of our Lord.
โ Mr. & Mrs. Walter Hillman
There aren't too many people who can say they were friends with someone for 64 years like Davey and I. I miss him everyday and think about him always since his passing. We always called each other on our birthdays and got to spend time with him and Darla since moving to the Tampa area, not enough though, wish we had many more days, I loved him like a brother. Darla we are always here for you if you need anything.
My husband Joe corrected what I posted earlier and said I met Dave and Darla way before Michael was born so I'm guessing I've known them 34 or more years and Joe has known him about 64 years and was a groomsman in their wedding. Dave was his best friend.
We would like to share a quote from Leo Buscaglia that resonated with us.
"I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love."
I met Dave and Darla the year Michael was born so 30+ years ago through my husband Joe Minor who has know Dave practically all his life of nearly 70 years. We retired to Florida in 2020 and having few family members living, decided to move close to them. We didn't get to see them as often as we wanted but had lively times when we did. COVID and other responsibilities robbed us of much time together the first year or two but the the time we did spend with them afterward is priceless and will always be cherished. I am heartbroken that we lost him far too soon.
Dave and I grew up together in the same neighborhood in Canton. I also attended Akron U and through Dave, I met my wife Nancy as she was his neighbor in college. We had many great times growing up together and also in college. I will always cherish my memories with him. God bless Dave and all the Ristoff family.
Tweed Banister & Shirley Wreaks
from Coventry Township, Ohio wrote on June 24, 2024
David Ristoff was/is special. He always did the right thing, was selfless, loving, and a great friend. David earned his spot in heaven. We love him. See you soon!
shirley and tweed
Frankie DโAntonio
from Canton Ohio wrote on June 23, 2024
Such a great guy & friend !! I met Dave when we were 11 and at 12 we were bridal dress carriers at Debbie & Richโs wedding. Daveโs clever sense of humor & timely comments were his trademark along with intellectual insight made him an enjoyable person & friend. His example of always doing the right thing is a lesson for us all. I was blessed to have known him!!! My love to his family & friends!!
Elaine Davis
from Colorado Springs wrote on June 23, 2024
Darla, David, Michael and families, I'm so sorry for your loss. David was indeed an exceptional human – kind, loving g, devoted, generous and supportive. I will always remember his friendship, humor and integrity. You're all in my thoughts and prayers. Sending love and hugs from Colorado.
Lester & Sue Snyder
from Spring Hill wrote on June 23, 2024
It was an honor to know David as a friend and a "boss". We are saddened by his passing, but we rejoice to know he no longer suffers in this world. God bless his family.
Arlene & Leon Tracht
from Tarpon Springs wrote on June 23, 2024
We are so saddened by David's passing. He was a kind and compassionate human being, both professionally and as a friend and part of our extended family. We send our heartfelt condolences to Darla, his sons and their wives, his grandchildren, his sister Deb, and the extended family. He will be missed by all the lives he touched. Rest in Peace our friend. You left us too soon.
-Arlene & Leon Tracht
Connie Dierking
from Palm Harbor wrote on June 22, 2024
Darla and family,
My love is with you as you navigate this difficult journey. I know you have incredible, sweet, loving memories of your David. Iโm just so sorry Darla. With the deepest of sympathy,
Connie Dierking