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Roger Ringstad Obituary
Roger William Ringstad passed away peacefully on September 5, 2014. Born July 3, 1927 in Everett, WA, he was the beloved son of the late Emil and Minnie Ringstad and brother to Wesley. Roger established himself as an athlete at an early age, developing talent in baseball and basketball and a passion for sports that would bring him great joy throughout his life.
Roger graduated from Everett High School in 1945, and then served a brief but honorable career in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Roger completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Puget Sound (1951) and Oregon State (1962), and enjoyed a distinguished career spanning thirty years as a high school educator, coach, and administrator. Roger's teaching and coaching career began in Goldendale and continued to Mount Vernon, where he led the basketball team to the state playoffs. As an Athletic Director and Assistant Principal at Interlake High School from 1967-1981, Roger was known for his dedication, fairness, and integrity and left a positive and lasting influence on literally thousands of youth. Upon retiring from the Bellevue School District, he continued to serve his community as Executive Secretary for the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association.
His commitment to his professional endeavors was matched by his devotion to his family and close friends. Roger is predeceased by his loving wife of 19 years, Beverly Joyce Ringstad ne;e Lichtenwalter, with whom he shared a beautiful partnership. He was a wonderful father to his children, Gina, Joni, and Geoff, who brought him joy. He valued family, hard work and resiliency, which he demonstrated in raising three young children after Beverly's early passing. A man of quick wit with an uncanny memory, Roger quoted Yogi Berra with the twinkle of his beautiful blue eyes. He took pride in his Norwegian ancestry and enjoyed a good-natured poke about his heritage. He was affiliated with the Elks and VFW. For the last six years he resided at the Briarwood Health Center in Issaquah, where he received exceptional care, enjoyed good health and lived an active lifestyle which included exercise, trips to local attractions, attending church services, and staying connected with current events and sports through his iPad. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the Briarwood staff for their loving support.
He is survived by his daughters, Gina (the late Larry Fehr) and Joni (Dave Edison) and son Geoff (Nancy Ringstad). Grandchildren: Lindsey (Pete Tunis), Megan (Tyler Snow), Lauren (Joshua Bryan), Eric Edison, Kristen (Alex Van Drie), Melika Ringstad, Allen White, and Katrina White. Great-grandchildren: William and Jack Tunis, Weston Snow, Kaylee and Mark Van Drie, and baby girl Bryan due in November.
A beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, leader and friend of many, Roger will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. His was a life well lived.
A reception will be held Friday, September 26 at 2:00 pm in the Evergreen Room at Timber Ridge following a private interment at Tahoma National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends a contribution to your local Boys and Girls Club of America (www.bgca.org).
Arrangements by Flintofts Funeral Home 425-392-6444
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Roger Ringstad
Sponsored by The Family.
Mark Akeson
February 4, 2015
I was a very sorry to see Roger's obituary this morning. I knew him as Mr. Ringstad when I was a student at Interlake High in the 1970's.
I haven't seen Mr. Ringstad (Roger) for forty years, but I have lasting, fond memories of him. He was a terrific role model!
My thoughts are with my classmate Gina and the family.
Mark
October 8, 2014
I am so very sorry to hear of Mr. Ringstad's passing. He was my Biology teacher, his first year of teaching and my first year of high school. I remember him with such fond thoughts. You family members are probably aware of what a gem he was; and not only to you his family, but he was instrumental in fostering a positive high school experience fo all students who came under is guidance.
John Spain
September 25, 2014
Joni, Dave and Family - We share in your loss. Roger was truly one of the "Greatest Generation". You're in our thoughts and prayers as you gather to remember him this week. John & Lori Spain
Steve Pope
September 20, 2014
God bless those family and friends who were close to this fine man.
Robert Beath
September 15, 2014
Dear family members, Your father, grandfather or uncle was, as you know, a wonderful man. I can tell you from experience he was a wonderful teacher too. He was my biology teacher when I was 15 and a sophomore at MVHS. Later he was my adviser when I held an ASB office and he was so supportive and helpful in his work with us "kids." I have thought of him often over the years and remember him and his joyous spirit. He will always be a part of your life too. Take comfort in that.
Tom Kelley
September 15, 2014
`So sorry to hear of Roger's passing. I have so many fond memories from Biology classroom to athletics. Roger and Bud Hake led our bb team to the state tournament which was a big deal for our little town, at the time. Roger always handled himself with class and had a wonderful sense of humor. When they made some changes in the MVHS hall of fame, I was able to get the picture of our 1961 bb team picture. My team mate and long time friend, Jack Lynch and I took the picture last year to visit and have Roger sign it. We are getting everyone's signature and plan to then copy and distribute to anyone involved in that wonderful memory for so many of us. It was great to visit with Roger at that time and I was amazed at his memory of those days and reminded us of many things I had forgotten! We will miss you Roger but the fond memories of him and his influence on my life will remain.
Rest in Peace Roger. Tom Kelley
Russ Davis
September 14, 2014
What a great administrator! N a great role model!
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