Algene Keith Ristow

Algene “Gene” Keith Ristow was born on August 15, 1932, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Albert and Clara Ristow. He was the eighth of their ten children. In 1941, Gene committed his life to following Jesus at Willmar First Baptist Church—a faith that guided and sustained him throughout his life.

In 1953, Gene married his high school sweetheart, Linnea Ruth Nelson. Their 72-year marriage was marked by deep love, enduring friendship, shared faith, and steadfast partnership as they walked together through all that life brought them. Together, Gene and Linnea raised their three children: Cynthia, Sharla, and Rustin.

Gene’s 93 years were richly filled with family, friends, church, sports, teaching, and coaching. Creative and talented, he enjoyed drawing, painting, woodworking, and singing.

A lifelong lover of sports—especially anything involving a ball—Gene always made time to play catch, shoot baskets, or toss a football. He led his Willmar High School basketball team to the State Basketball Tournament and later played college basketball at St. Cloud State University. A devoted sports fan, Gene faithfully cheered for the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and later for the Seattle Mariners and Seahawks.

From 1957 to 2002, Gene taught and coached junior and senior high students, first in Milaca, Minnesota, and then, beginning in 1964, in Bothell, Washington. He left a lasting impact on countless students. Known affectionately as “Mr. Ristow” or simply “Coach,” he taught science and physical education, coached middle and high school sports, and later taught traffic safety. His patience, humor, memorable sayings, and unmistakable laugh were well known. Over the years, Gene also held many “summer jobs,” including house painting and working at church summer camps.

Gene’s church family was central to his life. He and Linnea opened their home for Bible studies, youth group gatherings, and Young Life meetings. In 1968, their home became the meeting place for planning the Northshore Baptist Church plant. In his younger years, Gene sang in a men’s quartet, performed solos during Sunday services, and taught Sunday School.

On December 10, 2025, Gene passed peacefully at home in Bothell, surrounded by his family.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife, Linnea; his children/spouses, Cynthia & Bruce, Sharla & Randy, and Rustin & Gina; his grandchildren/spouses, Myra & Josh, Andrew & Sarah, Betsy & Brock, Ryan & Saya, and Brooke & Aiden; and his great-grandchildren, Maximus, Daniel, Matthew, Ruthie, Dash, Marigold, and Cillian.

He was preceded in death by his grandson Chuck, his parents, his brothers and sisters, and many dear friends. Gene is now joyfully reunited with them in heaven, welcomed by smiles, laughter, and loving embraces.

Gene's legacy of faith, love, patience, humor, and service will live on in all who knew him.

A Celebration of his Life at 1:30pm on Jan 17, 2026 at Northshore Community Church, Kirkland, WA