Donald E. Kristoff passed away on October 21, 2026, at the age of 78 at Fountain View in Mishawaka. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Sara Mae & Edward Kristoff. Don graduated from Mishawaka High School where he played football. Early in his life he lived in the mountains of California where he built houses. He always loved nature and had his best friend with him for years, a large dog named Buster Bud.

Don was an outdoors man. He loved hunting, fishing, and gardening. He returned to Indiana when his father was ill in 1986. There he met Vicki Nelson and they got married in her sister Carol’s backyard in Mishawaka. They shared 26 years of marriage. He cared for her until she passed away on March 30, 2024.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, Sara Mae and Edward Kristoff and his niece, Ann Marie Heater. He is survived by his sister Sonia (Darrel) Heater, brother Joe A. Kristoff, Amy (Michael) Dunlap and many great nieces and nephews and 9 great great nieces and nephews.

Vicki had 2 daughters, Connie (deceased), and Chrystal. She had 3 grandchildren Olivia, Sophia, and Hudson and 3 great grandchildren, all of whom he loved very much.

Don had a faithful friend and fishing buddy - Bill Natynka.

Don had some near death experiences throughout his life but God saved him each time. He suffered with dementia for about 5 years. The two facilities where he lived, he was one of their favorite patients. Don returned to his faith in God. He was a free spirit and now his spirit is free. At the end of his journey he went home to be with the Lord.

A grave side family gathering will be at a later date. Donations can be made to Paradigm Hospice, Mishawaka Indiana, in his memory.