Michael L. Ristow, 70, a resident of The Villages and formerly of La Crosse passed away Saturday, Oct. 10, 2020, at Gundersen Health System, La Crosse, surrounded by his family as he fought a short but courageous battle with cancer.

He was born April 16, 1950 in La Crosse to Clifford and Rosemarie (Norby) Ristow. Mike worked his entire career at Trane Company until his retirement. Mike’s love for his wife Peggy, daughter Katie and granddaughter Alyssa was second to none. He enjoyed watching Packer and Badger games and golf. Mike’s favorite pastime was driving and he loved taking road trips. He also enjoyed traveling and most of all, time spent with his family and friends. Mike had a personality that would light up a room. His gift was his smile, his wave and sense of humor.

Mike is survived by his wife of 51 years Peggy, daughter Katie Ristow and granddaughter Alyssa Pollock, brother Richard Ristow of La Crosse, sisters-in-law Patsy Pippin of La Crosse and Pam Clark of Sparta, father-in-law Ben Pippin of La Crosse, step brothers and sisters-in-law Mary Jo (Lance) Rickaway of Texas, Kevin (Kathy) Burke of La Crosse, Dave (Kelly) Johnson of Ohio, and many nieces and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, brother Tom Ristow and brother-in-law Chris Clark.

Mike taught us there is more important than love of family, the importance of laughter in life, the beauty of sunshine on your face, and the closeness of friends.

Funeral services will be held at 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, at Jandt-Fredrickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 4239 Mormon Coulee Rd., La Crosse. Pastor Scott Skogen will officiate. Burial will be at a later date. Visitation will be from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Covid-19 protocols will be adhered to and masks will be required.