Ginger A. Rist, 68, of Ashland, Nebraska, passed away Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026, at her home. She was born Dec. 15, 1957, in Omaha, Nebraska, to William and Eileen (Matzen) Smith.
Ginger was a beloved wife, mother and Nana whose greatest joy was the love she shared with her family. She was a kind and loving person who always saw the good in everyone and never had a bad thing to say about anyone. She will be remembered for her caring heart, gentle spirit and the love she gave so freely to those around her.
Ginger graduated from Ashland-Greenwood High School in 1976. She continued her education at Health Careers Institute, graduating in 1983 with a major in Practical X-Ray Technology and Laboratory Assisting. She went on to work as an X-ray technician for a large orthopedic office in Arizona.
Ginger enjoyed scuba diving, fishing, camping and spending time at the beach. She especially cherished the time she spent with her beloved husband of 50 years, Bob, and treasured her time with her daughter and grandchildren.
She is survived by her husband, Bob Rist; grandchildren, Robbie Rist and Alexa Evans; siblings, Debra Sillman, Theresa (Tony) Davison, Michael Smith, Patrick (Gloria) Smith, Daniel (Julie) Smith, Rudy Smith and James (Jamie) Smith; as well as many other loving family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Amber Rist; her father, William Smith; her mother, Eileen Smith; her grandparents, Rudolph and Gladys Matzen and James and Mary Smith; and her brother-in-law, Ricky Sillman.
Ginger will always be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother and a cherished Nana. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Celebration of life: Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Riverview Community Church, 324 N. 32nd St., Ashland, Nebraska. Visit marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.
