Retired Sartell Police Chief Bob Ringstrom Has Died

(KNSI) – Retired Sartell Police Chief Bob Ringstrom has died after an accident while riding his bicycle over the weekend.

Seventy-four-year-old Ringstrom was remembered by his former colleagues as a respected leader, admired by both his staff and the community. While Chief, he created officer assignments within Sartell Schools and enhanced professional standards, “transforming policing into a respected profession in our city.” Even after his retirement, he stayed connected with many of those in the department. He will “be deeply missed,” according to a post on the Sartell PD’s Facebook page.

His obituary says Ringstrom was a North Dakota native and a Marine Corps veteran, having served from 1968 to 1972, which included a tour of duty in Vietnam and as a Marine Security Guard in Ankara, Turkey. After marrying his sweetheart, Barbara Wiseman, in 1974, they lived in Greece before moving to Mankato so Ringstrom could go to school and get a law enforcement degree. He later earned his Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice at St. Cloud State University and served as a police officer in Hutchinson before becoming Chief in Sartell. He retired in 2004.

According to his obituary, Ringstrom was dedicated to his community, volunteering with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. His favorite moments were spent at the cabin, enjoying the outdoors with an old cigar. Above all, he cherished his role as “Papa,” entertaining his grandchildren with his humor and playful noises.

He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, biking, and playing the drums.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 21st, at Celebration Lutheran Church in Sartell. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, June 20th, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church, and one hour prior to services on Friday. Burial will take place at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls at a later date.

Ringstrom leaves behind his wife, Barbara; daughters, Erika Jordan, Krista Schmitz, and Britt Ringstrom; four grandchildren; and three siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Dementia Community Action Network. Learn more and contribute here.

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