Francis J. "Rip" Ripperda, 83 of Georgetown, TX, formerly of Austin, TX, passed away Sunday, July 8, 2012 in Georgetown. Rip was born March 4, 1929 in Doon, IA, to Joseph and Gladys Kramer Ripperda.
Rip is survived by his wife of almost 63 years, Jean "Jamie" M. (Steelsmith) Ripperda; sons: Tim and Terry Ripperda; and daughter, Cindy Brien; spouses: grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also leaves behind a sister, Madonna Plueger and brothers: George and Dan Ripperda. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Maryanne Selken; a brother, Larry Ripperda; and granddaughter, Tracey Ripperda.
Rip retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 after a distinguished 33 year career as a U.S. Army pilot with service in Vietnam, Turkey, Panama and several Army posts in the United States. His honors include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal 25 Awards, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm (2d Award) and Master Army Aviator Badge.
After many years of military service, doing what he loved, he enjoyed 15 years of traveling the world with his wife, mainly by RV. He never met a stranger at the parks and knew everyone's stories soon after he and Jamie pulled in and got their RV situated. |
