John Risse

As of 1:45 a.m. April 21st, 2018, John Stephen Risse V, is absent from the body and face to face with the Lord. Steve was 88 years old and made a peaceful transition in his sleep at Trinity Ridge Nursing Home in Hickory, NC.  He was the son of the late John Stephen Risse IV and Callie Rebecca Karney and was an exemplary son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend and left an inspiring pattern for all to follow.  He was genuinely an all-around ‘mighty fine feller’.
Steve was born on October 26th, 1929 in Michigan City, Indiana.  He and his wife Linda, raised their family in Frankfort, Indiana where Steve was a successful builder, developer and draftsman.  He loved and spent a lot of his life getting up early, having coffee and then going out to frame or mark out a house.  Fresh lumber on a job site was his favorite smell.  Following his career in Frankfort, Steve and Linda spent time in Sarasota (FL), Colorado Springs (CO), Springfield (MO).  Most recently due to the debilitating disease of Parkinson's, he spent time in a nursing home in Charlotte, North Carolina, where son Rod and daughter-in law Karen gave him not only loving care, but many opportunities to share outings, events and home cooked meals.
Steve was a witty, likable man who loved being with his family.  He loved his dogs, basketball, camping and BBQ’s by the lake or in the woods having cookouts with “Hanger-burgs” (A.K.A. Hamburgers), Crispy Crowns and Root Beer then topping it off with Reece’s (unwrapped minis) or 3 Musketeers and ice cream.  Few things were better than a warm fire surrounded by his family.  He had a profound sense of humor and a very sharp mind.  Steve had a huge heart and was loved and admired by all who knew him.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents John and Callie Risse, his sister Doris “Cissy” Weber, brother Joe “Goose” Risse and his cherished daughter Lorinda (Po-Tater) Stewart.  He is survived and will be greatly missed by his wife Linda (whom he lovingly referred to as "Tomos") and three children – Linda, Kimberly (husband Gene), Rod (wife Karen) and his cherished grandchildren Kody, Kasey, Thomas, Chad,Travis and great-grandchild Cooper.


Your personal messages will be appreciated.  Please sign the online guest book at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Risse family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted at Trinity Ridge, 2140 Medical Park Drive, Hickory North Carolina, 28602.




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