Harold Thomas “Tom" Rist, Jr

Tom died peacefully on November 2, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Des Moines, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was born on January 28, 1935, one of four children of Harold and Ann Rist in Chicago, Illinois. The Family moved to Des Moines in 1936.  He was a 1953 graduate of Dowling Catholic High School.  After High School Tom began working at Meredith/R.R. Donnelley Publishing Company in DM. 

He later enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, stationed off the Virginia Coast. Tom proudly served for four years. After returning home, Tom met the love of his life, Janice Elaine Milligan. Her laughter and beauty captured his heart. Together they built a life grounded in faith, love and family. They raised four children.  Tom continued working at Meredith/R.R. Donnelley until he retired after 41 years. A man of deep faith and quiet strength, Tom found joy in life's simple pleasures-fishing, hunting, cooking, reading, camping, photography and the occasional trip to the racetrack or casino.  He enjoyed sports, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes and Notre Dame.  Above all, he treasured time spent with family, whether it be yearly trips to Canada, Minnesota or The Ozarks, or attending the kids' school activities and programs. 

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his firstborn son Ricky, brother Richard Rist, son-in-law Frank Clausi,Jr "Buddy", granddaughter Bailey Moureau and grandson Thomas Blecker. 

Tom is survived by his wife, Jan; sister, Sr. Colette (Cassie) of The Poor Clare Monastery, brother Patrick Rist; his children, Joyce Clausi, Debbie Moureau, Edie (Kenny) Price and Diane (Travis Gulling) Rist. Tom is also survived by his many beloved grandchildren and many many great-grandchildren. 

Tom will be remembered for his kind heart, and steadfast love for his family and God. His life was marked by quiet generosity, a legacy that will live in all who knew and loved him. 

The family will greet friends on November 21st from 9:00-10:00am, at Christ The King Catholic Church (5711 SW 9th St., Des Moines) followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10am.

Tom will be buried (November 21st) with full Military Honors at 12:30 pm at The Iowa Veterans Cemetery (34024 Veterans Memorial Drive, Adel)

The family would like to Thank the VA for the amazing care received throughout his years at the Des Moines VA.