Griffin Ruggenberg was born Dec. 26, 1980 and died April 8, 2018, after a tragic and accidental fall at his house. In between is everything that counts. From Snohomish, where he grew up on the banks of Ebey slough, to Bellingham, where he met his wife, to Whidbey Island, where they made a home and raised their children, he rarely strayed far from the tide in his heart. He was at peace near these waters.

Griffin was co-owner of Island Construction. Here and everywhere along the way, he worked hard, earned trust and connected with people in a way that made him impossible to forget. He loved widely, deeply and mischievously: fishing, music, plants and animals, science fact and science-fiction, wearing clothes you’d never dream of, just to keep everyone guessing. Whether in bow-tie or cutoff shorts, he moved through life with conviction and levity. He was curious and restless and kind; a patient, gentle father; a loving husband; and a brother and son who knew what the words meant. The room lit up when he walked in, and seems darker now that he’s left. We must kindle the spark he carried by remembering him.

Griffin’s family meant everything to him. He is survived by the love of his life, Shannon (Parsons) Ruggenberg, their three beautiful girls, Amélie, Lennon and Violet, and far too many friends and family who weren’t ready to say goodbye.

Join us for a celebration of Griffin’s life at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 22 at Freeland Hall, 1515 E Shoreview Dr, Freeland, WA 98249.

Griffin believed passionately in equality and freedom for everyone. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the ACLU in his name.