CASCADE (KWWL) -
A soldier with Iowa ties was killed in an IED attack last week in Afghanistan.
US Army Sergeant Michael Ristau most recently lived in Rockford, Illinois, but considered his home Cascade. The Cascade Pioneer reports that he is the son of Randy and Susie Ristau of Cascade.
Ristau was killed in Zabul Province, Afghanistan on July 13.
He joined the army right out of high school in 2004 and was honored with several awards including the army achievement medal, national defense medal and a global war terrorism service medal.
He leaves behind a wife, Elizabeth, and two sons, age 5 years and 7 months.
The family has released this statement: "Sergeant Michael Ristau, husband, father, son, brother, died serving the country that he loved. He will live on forever in our memories. Though his time on earth was short, his impact was huge. We have lost our Michael, but we are still so proud of him and his choice to serve our nation. He had a tremendous love for life and was passionate about bull riding. He leaves behind a wife, two sons and many family and friends. We want to thank all of our friends, family, community and the nation for their prayers and support during this time of great loss."
Funeral arraignments are pending.
