Larry Kristoff

    Larry Dean Kristoff, 83, passed away on October 31, 2026, surrounded by a lifetime of love, family, friendships, and memories.

    Larry was born on November 11, 1942, in Carbondale, Illinois, to Tony Kristoff and Sophia “Flo” Rumkus. He grew up on a farm, where he developed a lifelong love for animals and the outdoors. During high school, he met the love of his life, Doris, and together they built a life centered around family, friendship, and generosity.

    Above all, Larry loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured the time he spent with those closest to him. To his grandchildren, he was the best grandpa anyone could have asked for. The memories they made together, the love he showed, and the time he spent with them will always be cherished.

    Larry and Doris shared a generous spirit and always tried to see the best in people. They loved bringing family and friends together and especially enjoyed parties, holidays, and family reunions. Larry was happiest spending time with the people he loved, sharing stories, catching up, and enjoying each other’s company. He also loved being outdoors and spending time around animals.

    Larry was also an accomplished athlete whose wrestling career took him around the world. He earned All-State honors in football at Carbondale Community High School and played football at Southern Illinois University Carbondale before turning his attention to wrestling, where he became a two-time NCAA national champion.

    He proudly represented the United States at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, and the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, Mexico. Throughout his wrestling career, Larry earned five World Championship medals, including three silver and two bronze, as well as a gold medal at the 1967 Pan American Games.

    Larry went on to establish the wrestling program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), building it into a national powerhouse. During his 30 years as head coach, he led the Cougars to three consecutive NCAA Division II national championships in 1984, 1985, and 1986, along with 18 top-10 national finishes.

    While Larry achieved great success in wrestling, he was especially proud of the people he coached and mentored. He helped shape the lives of countless athletes, including his sons, Mark and Kip, who became national champions themselves. His influence extended well beyond the wrestling mat, and the relationships he built continued long after his athletes left SIUE.

    His dedication to wrestling earned him induction into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2007 and the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame in 2022.

    Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris Kristoff, who passed away on October 13, 2025; his parents, Tony Kristoff and Sophia “Flo” Rumkus; and his siblings, Judy Brewer, Eugene Kristoff, and Roger Kristoff.

    He is survived by his children, Mark, Kip, and Dee (Kurt); his grandchildren, Keagan (Sean), Kasey, Kassidy, Kenzie (Hunter), Grace, Savana (Sidney) and Max; and his great-grandchildren, Aurora, Harper, Everett, Mac, Emmett, Jaxon, River, and Ellis. Larry is also survived my numerous nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends.

    Larry accomplished so much throughout his life, but to his family, his greatest gift was simply being Grandpa, Dad, and a loving husband. His championships and achievements will always be remembered, but it is the love he gave, the memories he made, and the time spent together that his family will treasure most. He was truly the best grandpa anyone could have asked for, and he will be loved and missed more than words can express.

    Visitation for Larry Kristoff will take place from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Friday, December 4, 2026 at Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home in Anna. A private graveside service will be held at Zion Methodist Cemetery near Carbondale. Interment will follow. Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home in Anna is in charge of arrangements.