Richard D. Christoff, 69, passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at his home in Ridgway, surrounded by family.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 51 years, Verena M. Christoff (Willow); a daughter, Lisa Martinez; a son, Richard S. (Crystal) Christoff, a sister, Wendy (Dan) Klinedinst; a granddaughter, Nina Martinez; and grandsons Andre (Christine) Martinez, Samuel Christoff and Owen Christoff.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel J. and Gertrude Christoff (Johnson) and brothers Tommy Joe Christoff and William “Bill” Christoff.

Mr. Christoff honorably served in the U.S. Air Force from 1977 to 1981 as a sergeant with the Strategic Air Command (SAC), 544th Intelligence Analysis Squadron based in Omaha, Nebraska. He was committed to his family and country as well as his community, serving as the longtime leader and committee member of the Boy Scouts of America Troop 93 in Ridgway and retiring after decades of service as a volunteer firefighter with the Ridgway Fire Department. He was an avid woodworker and outdoorsman who loved to spend his days hunting and fishing with friends and family throughout the generations.

Mr. Christoff was a 1971 graduate of Ridgway Area High School and earned an associate’s degree in specialized business from Dubois Business College. He retired after 32 years of service as an accountant at Elco Electric. 

Funeral Services for Richard D. Christoff will be held on Monday, July 17, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Krise Funeral Home, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA, 15853, with Rev. Ron Burkett officiating.

Military Honors will be accorded by the Ridgway-Johnsonburg-Wilcox Burial Detail.

Burial will follow at Thayer Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:30 AM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Penn Highlands Community Nurses and Hospice, Boy Scout Troop 93 in Ridgway or a charity of one’s choice.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com