January 31, 1953 – July 23, 2016
Kathleen Ann Governor Rissew, the daughter of Evelyn Gibson and Charles Governor, continued her journey with Jesus on July 23rd at the Leo Center in Rochester, New York after a fearless battle with cancer which lasted 20 months. She was born on January 31, 1953, in Canandaigua, New York. In 1971, she married Charles Rissew Sr. and they started a family. Together, they raised 4 children, Dr. Charles Jr (Ronda) Rissew, Adam (Melanie) Rissew, Colleen (Matthew) Herriven, and Jordan Rissew. Besides her children, Kathy is also survived by nine grandchildren, Allison, Alexander, Amanda, Julia, Ariana, Alyssa, Benjamin, Lauren and Jake, her step-father John Ralston, a sister, Lisa M. Mustaca, and so many friends.
She was predeceased by her brother Charles, both of her parents, Charles and Evelyn, and a daughter-in-law, Tanya Rissew.
She grew up in Hilton, NY before moving to Lyndonville, NY, and to Gilbert, AZ briefly and then moved to Scottsville, NY.
No one will forget how thoughtful and kind Kathy always was. She seamlessly enjoyed every facet of the world and did her best to experience every opportunity that came her way. She enjoyed gardening, running, biking, kayaking, animals and most of all, people.
Kathy was a dedicated social worker, therapist and ordained minister, constantly receiving thank you notes and praise from all her clients, peers, and friends.
A celebration of her life will be held on August 6, 2016, at the Caledonia Assembly of God Church located at 3087 Main Street in Caledonia, NY 14423 at 11am. A reception will follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice.
Truly a great soul that will always be missed and never forgotten.
Chosen by Kathy for her obituary
11 Reminders of Hope for the Battle-Weary:
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Ps. 73:26
“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you…” Deut. 33:27
“The battle belongs to the Lord…” 1 Sam. 17:47
“The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Ex. 33:14
“’Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.” Zech. 4:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deut. 31:6
“…Do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Neh. 8:10
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Ps. 46:1
“The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Ex. 14:14
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” Eph. 6:11-13
So sorry. Kathy was very helpful and thoughtful person to my husband and I in a hard time. We are greatful that she is with out pain and with are lord.