Bruce Ristow Obituary

My heartfelt condolences to the Ristow Family. I knew Bruce as a bright and caring father over the years in our suburban neighborhood. One of my favorite memories was when Bruce "answered the call" from Girl Scout Leaders for a few parents to help small groups working on specialty badges. We were so appreciative that Bruce offered to introduce a group of Scouts to the basics of using a home computer. The Ristows were one of the first families to have (and master!) one of these early devices (likely an Apple!) so it was a wonderful and special learning opportunity for the Scouts. One of the projects involved creating quite an elongated "Happy Birthday" banner with the continuous stream of copy paper used in those early days. I also remember Bruce accompanying the troop on at least one camping trip. His good natured presence was again appreciated.

I later knew Bruce as a volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House. I remember him bringing a steady and reliable presence to the setting. Bruce brought a special kindness to the world that will be missed by many. Thank you, Bruce.

My sincere condolences to the family. I was Bruce's secretary when he was Graduate Dean. Everyone can speak of his brilliance, but he had a humorous side as well. He kept getting his tie caught in the top drawer of his desk, so he often walked the halls with his tie flung over his shoulder. Finally, he put blocks under the legs, but the office gremlins pranked him with several bricks, making the desk much higher.
It was a pleasure to work for Bruce. I am saddened by his loss.

Dr. Ristow and family. Ellen notified me of Bruce's passing. My condolences go to you and your daughters . Prayers with you and the family during this difficult time.

My deepest sympathy to the Ristow family. I worked with Bruce from 1984 until his retirement. Bruce's excitement for technology is what helped Geneseo advance quickly in the early days of the digital era. I work in the IT department. I can't thank Bruce enough for his enthusiasm, support, and creativity in funding our first computer labs, our first fiber-optic network, our first classroom technology, our first academic mainframe computer (UNO), and our residential network. Bruce loved Apple computers. I was the recipient of his hand me down tangerine clamshell iBook when he moved on to the next new thing! Bruce loved to get together with us IT folks to watch the Apple keynotes announcing new products. I enjoyed working with Bruce and I especially liked his sense of humor. I am sorry for your loss.

I am so saddened to read Bruce's obituary. He hired me in December 1972 to work in his office and I worked for him for many years. I always enjoyed our working relationship. He was so far ahead of his time in incorporating computers in to the workplace as well as the academic agendas. He was the boss that I most respected and admired in all of my working career. He was smart and easy going. Back in the days when it was acceptable, he held sherry parties in the office for the graduate students when he was graduate dean. It was a great way to mingle with the students and staff. He will be missed by so many including me. He leaves me with fond memories of my early working life. May God Bless him and his family.

Dr. Ristow, I am so sorry to hear about your husband's passing. I remember meeting him once when I was your patient and he was taking pictures of all your patients for their files. I lost my Tom 4 years ago. Prayers for you and your family.

Dear Ristow Family, I offer my condolences. As a member of the Geneseo Chemistry faculty, I worked with Bruce from 1996 until his retirement. Bruce encouraged my career and looked out for me. He was an outstanding administrator but also so very kind. He even gave me his and his wife's symphony tickets once, which enabled my husband and I to experience a concert that we remember to this day. (Thank you). His many contributions to the academic life of the department and college and the effects of his mentorship of me and others live on. My deepest sympathy for your loss.

I am truly saddened by the passing of former SUNY Geneseo Associate Provost Bruce Ristow. He served the college well over many years, providing thoughtful and valuable administrative support for the various academic departments and classroom instruction that was well received by his Chemistry students. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Bruce as a fellow faculty member and administrator.

Joan Schumaker
SUNY Geneseo Former
Undergraduate Academic Dean &
Assistant Professor of Mathematics

I just noted in Sundays Democrat and Chronicle that former Associate Provost, Bruce W. Ristow, died on July 27, 2019. He served for many years as brilliant administrator, teacher and friend to the campus. His grasp of the budget, broad understanding of all the disciplines then taught at Geneseo and his ability to amiably support them, made him a much loved and respected colleague. His knowledge of and passion for music seriously made him something of a heroic figure for me personally. I am deeply saddened by his passing.

I was so saddened to hear of Bruce's passing. I have many good memories of him. He was my advisor and professor at SUNY Geneseo as well as a great friend to my husband. Having known him through school, it was delightful to learn about his wonderful family interactions. He was a great man, and will be missed by many people.