Gerald "Gerry" Ringwood, 70, of Kennewick, Washington, passed away on February 26, 2025.

Gerry was born on March 8, 1954, in Spokane, Washington, to William J. Ringwood and Helen Marie (Zeller) Ringwood.

Growing up on a dryland wheat farm in Sprague, Gerry developed a love for agriculture, acoustic guitar, and team sports. He made many cherished memories of the family farm, Williams Lake, and trips to Montana and Glacier National Park. Gerry's agricultural roots extended into his life and career. He attended Central Washington University and Washington State University, earning a Bachelor's in agricultural education in 1977 and later a Master's in adult education. He was an agriculture education teacher and FFA advisor in Finley for 18 years and spent two terms (7 years total) as a small schools director. Gerry then worked as the principal and director of Tri-Tech Skills Center in Kennewick for 16 years, which serves students across southeastern Washington. He was a committed leader and advocate for vocational education at the local and state level.

In 1985, Gerry married Karen Loftis and together they developed the home and acreage where they raised daughters Jenny and Lauryn and operated apple and cherry orchards. Gerry was a dedicated farmer, also co-owning family farms in Sprague and Quincy. He loved working in the shop, hiking, backcountry drives, Gonzaga basketball, and he developed a love of pickleball and its community.

Gerry was a trusted listener who cared about others and their wellbeing. He was known for his integrity, collaborative spirit, and curiosity; Gerry cultivated a community of people who exemplify these qualities. He valued his mentors, and in turn, served as a mentor to many.

Gerry is survived by his wife Karen, daughters Lauryn Ringwood and Jenny Connolly (Brian), grandsons Davin and Rowan, brother Sam Ringwood (Judi), sister Mary Ringwood-Firestone, sister-in-law Janna Ringwood, and a deep community of extended family, colleagues, students, and life-long friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Marie, his brother Don Ringwood, and brother-in-law Mark Firestone.

Spokane Funeral services will be held:

● Rosary Service: Thursday, March 13, 6 p.m., Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 3327 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA

● Funeral Mass: Friday, March 14, 11 a.m., Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 3327 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA

● Burial: Friday, March 14, 1 p.m., Holy Cross Cemetery, 7200 N. Wall St., Spokane, WA

Tri-Cities Celebration of Life will be held:

• Thursday, March 27, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Tri-Tech Skills Center, 5929 W. Metaline Ave., Kennewick, WA

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Tri-Tech Skills Center Foundation:

• In-person or mail:
  Tri-Tech Foundation
  C/O  Tri-Tech Skills Center
  5929 W. Metaline Ave.
  Kennewick, WA 99336
• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/4931360