Donald W. Ripley's Obituary
Donald Wallace Ripley was born the youngest of three children to Edward and Marian Ripley in, Rutland, Vermont on May 10, 1934. Don enjoyed his upbringing in Poultney, Vermont, and he formed the love of travel at an early age, living with relatives in Louisiana and attending St. Bernard's School in New Jersey. He graduated from the University of Maine at Orono in engineering and set about his career with Beloit Corporation in 1956 where he met the love of his life, Alice Porter, in 1957 and married in 1960. Together, they explored the world while Don continued to work for Beloit Corporation in Beloit, Wisconsin; Downingtown, Pennsylvania; Portland, Oregon; Kalamazoo, Michigan; Valladolid, Spain; Montreal, Canada and Singapore. Oregon was always home to him.
Don passed away peacefully on January 5, 2012 in Portland, Oregon. He was happiest when he was with his wife, family and friends. He is survived by his daughters; Luanne Ripley Kreutzer Mark of St. Helens, Oregon; Judy Ripley Mankus Roger of Hawthorn Woods, Illinois; his granddaughters, Emily and Ruby Mankus; his sister, Anne Smith Phillip of Wadsworth, Ohio. He also shared his love and humor with seven nephews, a niece and many, many friends.
He was preceded in death by Alice Ripley on October 26, 2009. His parents and his brother, Charles Ripley, also preceded him in death.
A private, family celebration will take place on January 12, 2012.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Legacy Hospice – Portland, P.0. Box 4484, Portland, Oregon 97208
What’s your fondest memory of Donald?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donald?
Share a story where Donald's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donald you’ll never forget.
How did Donald make you smile?