Reynold H. Ristrom

Reynold Hugh Ristrom age 96, formerly of Bloomington, MN, passed away peacefully with his family by his side April 20, 2018 in Tucson, AZ. Survived by his beloved wife Alice Elaine, daughters Janet Ristrom Polson and Laura Ristrom Goodman, son-in-law Thomas Goodman, grandchildren Matthew and Elisabeth, sister-in-law Doris Martinson, and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by daughter Laurel Ann, parents Reynold R and Jennie Marie (Norrbom) Ristrom, parents-in-law Martin and Mamie (Jacobson) Martinson, and brothers- and sisters-in-law Harold Martinson, Richard Martinson, Margaret and Jake Snyder and Evelyn and Roland Ramey. A lifelong Christian, Reynold trusted God and was not afraid of death, but voiced only concern for the welfare of his wife and family.

Reynold was a much-loved only child who enjoyed the busy life of the neighboring Martinson family, and had a teasing relationship with his best friend’s younger sister before marrying her in 1946. They were married for 72 years. A graduate of Washburn HS, he attended the University of Minnesota until joining the Army Air Force, first as bombardier flying 31 missions on B-17s in the European theater, then as instructor on B-29s. He achieved the rank of first lieutenant and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, among other medals. He next worked in sales, based in Lincoln, NE. Returning to MN, Reynold worked in construction, building a home in Bloomington where they lived for 62 years, until their 2017 move to Tucson.

Reynold was a loving, gentle man who was generous with his time and energy in service to family, church, and community. An active member of Grace Lutheran Church for 57 years, he last painted the cross on the steeple when he was 75. He volunteered with VEAP for over 20 years and was a skilled and valued volunteer at Habitat for Humanity. He was a member of the Masons for 71 years and enjoyed playing cards with fellow members. He was proud of his 50-year construction union membership. He enjoyed gardening and yardwork, having great success every year with tomatoes and occasionally with strawberries. A life-long stamp collector, Reynold was exceptionally well-informed about world events and corresponded with others across the globe. Animals loved Reynold and they were loved in return by him, especially his cat Sonny, who followed him around the neighborhood, crying for him to come home.

The family wishes to thank family members and MN friends who enriched their lives and the loving care provided by Dr. Marc Salita. Thanks also to the caring Tucson medical professionals and support staff of the Forum, Tucson Medical Center, HealthSouth, and especially Peppi’s House.