Richard “Ski” Jisko, 72, entered into rest in the comfort of his home on the afternoon of November 12, 2023. Ski was born October 15, 1951, to Grace and Clarence Jisko in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. In 1968 Ski enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he was given the nickname “Ski” and served his country during the Vietnam war.
In 1971 he met the love of his life, Betty, while stationed in California during the fall. After waiting about a month, Betty finally said yes on November 10, 1971, at the Marine Corp ball. Soon to follow on February 12, 1972, they became Mr. and Mrs. Jisko and shared an adventurous life of 52 years together. On February 17, 1974, they welcomed a bouncing baby boy, Richard Kenneth Jisko, and on July 14, 1977, they welcomed a precious baby girl, Tammy Louise Jisko. After settling down in the Gila valley, Ski owned and operated an auto shop just off highway 70 and Hollywood rd. Ski enjoyed mechanics and fishing. He taught everyone that would listen what he was doing.
He is survived by: his loving wife, Betty Jisko (safford); children, Richard (Shannon) Jisko, Tammy Jisko; brothers and sisters Patsy Jesko, Jim (Terry) Jisko, Tom (Debbie) Jisko, Eugene (Cheryl) Jisko, Tim (Barbara) Jisko; several nephews and nieces, 5 grandchildren, Caleb (Krissy) Crown, Taryn (Jaye) Stone, Addison Jisko, McKynzi Cox and Finnlee Jisko, and 2 great grand- children.
He is preceded in death by: his parents, brother, Larry Jesko; sister, Peggy Jisko, and grandson Devlen Crown. Richard was loved dearly and will be missed by many family and friends.
A graveside service for Richard, including military honors, will be conducted Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., in the Pima Cemetery with a procession beginning at Vining Funeral Home at 12:30 p.m.
Online condolences may be offered at www.viningfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.
