Thelma Frances Ristow

Thelma F. Ristow, 78, of Oshkosh, passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2017 surrounded by her loving family. She was born to Ambrose J. and Marie A. (Lauby) Enders on September 9, 1938 in Plymouth, WI.

She graduated from Glenbeulah High School in 1956. She received her Education degree from UW-Oshkosh in 1960 and her Master’s Degree in 1995. Thelma married Bill Ristow on November 7, 1964 at St. Fridolin Catholic Church in Glenbeulah, Wisconsin.

Grandma enjoyed attending her children's and grandchildren's athletic and music events. She always looked forward to time spent with family. She treasured their accomplishments and cherished all of the wonderful memories.

Thelma was a woman of faith and was actively involved in the parish. She had a real love of music. This could be seen through her passion with the church choir where for many years she served as the choir director.

“Mrs. Ristow” touched many lives throughout her teaching career. She was known as teacher, mentor, peer coach and friend. Thelma held many leadership roles and was a member of countless councils and committees. She promoted literacy and was a true advocate for education.

Thelma is survived by her five children and six grandchildren, all in Wisconsin- James (Lisa) of Pelican Lake, Lora (Richard) Niemoeller and their children Andrew and Megan of Whitefish Bay, Kim Van Wychen and her children Brennan and Sydney of Suamico, Robert (Anne) and their children Eleanor and Abigail of Menomonee Falls, and Donald of Pelican Lake. She is further survived by her brother, Duane (Jane) Enders of Plymouth and their family as well as many other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents and sister, Zaida Enders.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Thelma will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 18, 2017 at Most Blessed Sacrament (St Mary's Site – 605 Merritt Ave. Oshkosh). Visitation will be held at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home (Westside – 100 Lake Pointe Dr. Oshkosh) on Monday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and again on Tuesday at St. Mary's Site from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service.