Dates
Rip was born on December 15, 1920, in Eola, Texas, to Jerry and Francis (Pollak) Ripple. One of eight children, he grew up in Lowake and Paint Rock, Texas, working on the family farm alongside his family. Music was a part of his life from an early age, and he played alongside his brothers in the Ripple Band. A gifted musician, Rip could play just about any instrument he picked up, including the fiddle, guitar, bass, piano, harmonica, and accordion. His love of music stayed with him throughout his life.
Rip proudly served his country during World War II as a member of the Flying Tigers, serving with the 308th Bomb Group of the 14th Air Force. As a tail gunner aboard the B-24 Liberator known as the Flying Cloud, he flew an incredible 89 missions. He loved sharing stories of his time in the service, especially those involving the bombing of the Burma Road, giving family and friends a glimpse into the extraordinary experiences of his military years.
After returning home from the war, Rip met the love of his life, Harriet Williams. The two were married on May 24, 1945, in Eola, Texas, beginning a beautiful life together. They eventually settled in San Angelo, where they raised their four children: Danny Wayne, Sandra, Linda, and Randy. Rip owned and operated Ripple Tile Company for 30 years before retiring, building a life centered on hard work, dedication, and providing for his family.
Whether you knew him as Adolph, Rip, Daddy, or Grandpa, one thing was certain: you knew you were loved. Rip never missed an opportunity to tell someone how much he loved them. Whenever he spoke with someone on the phone or welcomed a visitor, he made sure to express his gratitude for their time and presence. He had a way of making people feel appreciated, and he spent his life making sure those he loved were taken care of. His love was expressed not only through his words but through the countless ways he showed up for the people around him.
Rip was rarely serious for long and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was always laughing, joking, and finding ways to keep those around him smiling. He had a playful spirit and a gift for bringing laughter into everyday moments. Whether he was sharing a story, pulling a prank, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends, Rip knew how to make life a little more fun. His laughter was a part of who he was, and the memories of his jokes, his smile, and his playful personality will be treasured just as much as the many years of love he gave his family.
Rip enjoyed life's simple pleasures and had many interests throughout his long life. He loved baseball, football, wrestling, dancing (3 dance clubs), and listening to old country music. An avid bowler, he participated in three bowling leagues. He was also a life long member of the American Legion and VFW. Above all, Rip loved the Lord, and his faith was an important part of his life. He was a faithful member of St. Paul Presbyterian Church for many years, where he worshiped and remained connected to his church family. His love for the Lord was part of the foundation on which he built his life, and his family takes comfort in the promise that, through Jesus Christ, death is not the end but the beginning of eternal life with Him.
Rip's greatest legacy was the family he loved so dearly. His 105 years brought generations of family together, and the love, stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind will continue to be shared for years to come. Though his family will deeply miss his presence, they are grateful for the extraordinary gift of having him in their lives for so many years.
Rip was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, his beloved wife, Harriet Ripple; his son, Danny Wayne Ripple; and his grandson, Jerod Blakeney.
Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Sandra Graves and Linda Pesina; his son, Randy Ripple; his sons-in-law and daughters-in-law, Jesse Pesina, Jan Ripple, and Leah Ripple; and his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
His surviving family includes Matthew Graves, Shannon Graves along with Madison; Jason Ripple, along with Shannon, Carter, and Addi; Shane Ripple, along with Amy, Becky, Morgan, Monte, Adaline, Tuff, and Scout; Dennis Carter, along with Gena and Madison; Amber Andrews, along with Kris, Bode, and Harlee; Amy Bollinger, along with Brent, Caden, Jace, and Callie; Ashley McGuffin, along with Michael, Kelton, Gage, and Lola; Tiffany Rene Roberts, along with Frank; Josh McKay, along with Madison, Jonah, Jerdan, and Jameson; Gavin Blakeney along with Sarah, and Ethan Pesina. He is also loved by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of Shannon 4 North and Hospice of San Angelo for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Rip. Special thanks go to nurse Amy, Lance, and Vicki for their kindness and support, not only to their beloved Daddy and Grandpa but to the entire family during this time.
A private family graveside service will be held, officiated by Pastor Mack Roller.
At 105 years old, Rip leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years alone. He leaves behind a family who knew they were loved, stories that will be told for generations, music that will bring back memories, laughter that will echo in the stories shared around family gatherings, and a lifetime of love that will never be forgotten. His faith in the Lord, his devotion to family, and his playful spirit will continue to live on through the generations that follow.
He lived a long and remarkable life, loved his family well, kept us laughing, and made sure those around him knew they mattered. We celebrate his extraordinary 105 years, give thanks for the blessing of having him in our lives, and rejoice in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. His earthly story has ended, but his love, laughter, and legacy of faith will live on forever.