A Bothell man, killed in a collision last week on I-405 in Kirkland, is remembered as an involved and committed father, and an outstanding volunteer in connection with Inglemoor High School in Kenmore.

Chris Ryden, 49, died on June 6 when his Ford Fusion was crushed between a pair of larger vehicles in morning traffic near Northeast 124th street.

Ryden was a sitting member of the Kenmore Junior High PTSA Board of Directors, in charge of fundraising, and took part in several other organizations at Kenmore Junior High and Inglemoor High School.

A Celebration of Life for Ryden has been scheduled at 4 p.m. today at Fraternal Order of Eagles in Kirkland.

“I got to know him this past winter and spring and was immediately impressed with his warm, engaging personality,” said DJ Baddeley, football coach at Inglemoor High. “He took the responsibility of VP of fundraising efforts. He has done an amazing job in a short period of time lining up commitments, which is a testament to his character.”

Ryden’s impact was greatly felt with the Inglemoor Junior Football program, where he was once a member of the IJF board.

“Chris was very skilled at reaching out to the community businesses for fundraising support for IJF,” said Jack Bobin, a former IJF president. “Chris brought great commitment and a good measure of humor to our organization and he was a friend to all.”

Patti Byers, president of the Parent-Teacher-Student Association at Inglemoor High School, said the PTSA had reached out to see how the organization could help Ryden’s family.

“We are saddened by this tragedy,” she said.

The cause of the collision remains “mysterious,” according to Washington State Police trooper Chris Webb, who said the investigation is likely to last several weeks. WSP ruled out drugs and alcohol, but Webb said a medical cause was still a possibility.

Ryden was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, and was reported in critical condition at the scene of the accident. Four of the five southbound lanes were closed for two hours, and I-5 express lanes were opened in Seattle to alleviate southbound congestion from Everett to Seattle. Traffic on I-405 backed up as far as SR 527 in Bothell.

A GoFundMe account was set up by a family friend in the name of Ryden’s longtime girlfriend, Dena Stann-Halligan, and her three children. Ryden also had three children of his own. Nearly $4,000 was raised in the first day, with a goal of $25,000.

CLARIFICATION: This story has been updated to better reflect the children of Chris Ryden and Dena Stann-Halligan.