Nancy J. Ristau

Nancy J. Ristau (Krause) passed away at her home surrounded by both of her children on June 12th, 2023 at age 63, after a long and courageous battle with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Nancy was born on March 17, 1960. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, daughter and friend. Nancy loved her family fiercely. She really enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and attending/watching their extracurricular activities. Whether it be at the gym, ball field, hockey arena, auditorium, etc. or watching them online when her RA no longer allowed her to attend - she was their biggest fan and she always let them know how much fun she had watching them.

Nancy was a warrior - the strongest person we know. She was unwavering and grounded in her Christian faith, and strong in her will to survive with severe RA, even in the most difficult times. She was a trusted and supportive friend - always helping others in need without judgement. She loved to travel, see new things and try new restaurants. She enjoyed being outdoors, whether that be riding bike, being by the lake or ocean, enjoying a nice fall day on the farm, taking walks through the woods or state parks. She felt close to God being outside. She was loyal and hardworking, supporting the Waseca community, people, businesses and her church communities.

We are so grateful for the time we had with her, but happy she is freed of this body and finally at peace. God opened his gates for her on a beautiful, sunny, early morning - her favorite part of the day, and left a visible cross in the clouds to let us know she had arrived. We hope she is running with the angels, skiing, riding bike with the wind in her hair, wearing high heels if she chooses or enjoying a beautiful harvest sunset from the porch swing. She will remain in our hearts forever and be missed until we meet again.

She is preceded in death by mother, Jeannette; father, Paul; and brother, Thomas. She is survived by her children, Jennifer (Brandon) Bauleke, and Joshua (Angela) Ristau; grandchildren Charlie, Will, Briley, Lucy, Corbin and Cullin; sister, Jane (Jack) Kolars; brothers Wayne and Dave (Connie) Krause; and many other good friends and family. 

Visitation will be from 4:30-7:30 PM on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at the State Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service in Waseca. A private burial will follow at Woodville Cemetery.