Christopher Rissetto

Christopher Rissetto, 80, of Spotsylvania, Virginia, passed away after a valiant two-year fight against pancreatic cancer on October 11, 2026. Born July 17, 1946, Christopher lived a life marked by steady purpose, deep faith, and a quiet strength that drew others to seek his counsel and example.

Christopher earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from San Francisco State University in 1968, a master's degree in political science from the University of California-Davis in 1970, and a Juris Doctor from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1973.

He built his professional life as a partner with several law firms, including Holland & Knight and culminating at Reed Smith, LLC where he was co-chair for the Public Policy and Infrastructure Group. He found practicing law immensely rewarding and brought to his work the same diligence that characterized his relationships and responsibilities beyond the office.

A faithful member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Christopher’s life was grounded in faith that was an inspiration for his family. Even amid tremendous physical suffering, he expressed great faith in God’s mercy and continued a deep devotion to Mary, praying a daily rosary. He also contributed to a number of religious orders to support their missions.

Christopher was committed to his family, especially to Rachel, his wife of 59 years, and to his children and grandchildren. He cherished large family meals filled with Italian food (especially meatballs) and he delighted in the traditions that brought everyone together. Christmas was a particular joy: he loved decorating, and his thoughtfully chosen gifts came with clever riddles. His guidance was frequently sought, whether for career moves, college choices, or life’s everyday decisions, and his opinion was valued for its clarity, steadiness, and genuine concern.

Christopher was also very close to his younger brother, Stephen Rissetto. The bond they shared was invaluable during the time that Christopher was ill, and he was strengthened by their daily conversations each morning and night.

Christopher was an avid sports fan and played intramural baseball at San Francisco State University. Throughout his life he loved watching baseball (especially the Yankees) and football, especially the University of Wisconsin Badgers. Post-retirement, he greatly enjoyed having the time to read books, listen to sports and political podcasts, and work on his investments.

Christopher was preceded in death by his father, Louis B. Rissetto, and his mother, Harriet Rissetto (Parks). He is survived by his wife, Rachel Rissetto (Alameda); his children, Adriana Puckett (son-in-law John A Puckett Jr.), Elizabeth Rissetto, and Christina Anderson (son-in-law Thomas Anderson); his grandchildren, Jacob Puckett, Lillian Puckett, Abigail (Max) Puckett, Molly Puckett, and Zoe Anderson; and his brother, Stephen Rissetto (sister-in-law Edee Rissetto).

A funeral mass will be held in Our Lady of Knock Hall at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 9149 Eleys Ford Rd., Fredericksburg, Virginia 22407, on October 21, 2026, from 11:30 AM. A Committal Service will directly follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, 1902 William Street, Fredericksburg, VA, on October 21, 2026. There will be a reception immediately following the interment at Curio Wine Bistro, 205 William Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Mary’s Shelter: https://marysshelterva.org/.