In loving memory of

Calvin L. Rippentrop
September 23, 1929 - February 21, 2019

Calvin Lee Rippentrop was born September 23, 1929, on the family farm northwest of Buffalo Center, the son of Calvin "Kelly" and Frieda (Heyer) Rippentrop. He attended country school through the 7th grade and in later years he proudly obtained his GED. In 1949, he served in the United States Army doing his basic training in Ft. Riley Kansas and being stationed in Italy. It was there he met his wife, Maria Lucia Garbeis. They were married on August 13, 1952, in Trieste, Italy.

Following their marriage, they returned to Buffalo Center where Cal worked for WTA Telephone Company and John and Jerry's Hardware. In 1962, he established Cal's Plumbing and Heating operating it for 30 years until retiring in 1992. Cal was a strong community member serving as a volunteer fireman for 11 years, serving as mayor pro tem and on the city council for 12 years, he also served on the Centennial Committee and was a Cub Scouts pack leader in earlier years. Cal became a member of First Congregational Church at the age of 17 and served as Deacon and Trustee through many years of membership of the Church. He was also active in the Buffalo Center VFW and the American Legion. Cal enjoyed traveling with his wife and woodworking.

In June, 2014, he became a resident of Timely Mission Nursing Home. He died there Thursday, February 21, 2019, at the age of 89.

He is survived by two children, Allan (Dolores) Rippentrop of Owatonna, MN and Lori (Ron) Coleman of Ankeny; four grandchildren, Rob (Kristy) Rippentrop, Amber Wubben, Natalie (Matt) Neil, and Rachel (Seth) Drury; and six great-grandchildren, Tyler and Emma Wubben, and Skyler, Samantha, Hayden Rippentrop, and Greyson Neil; and a sister, Ramona Levorson and her husband Harlan of Lake Mills. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife Maria on April 12, 2017.

Tributes

Paul and Cheryl Beenken wrote on Feb 28, 2019:

"So sorry we could not be with you yesterday. You have been in our thoughts and prayers over the last few days. Paul and I always enjoyed visiting with your dad at Timely Mission Nursing Home! Hugs to you all! Love, Paul and Cheryl"

Diane Gossman Penning wrote on Feb 25, 2019:

"My sympathy to the Rippentrop family! So sad to hear old friends are leaving us!"

Julie christianson wrote on Feb 24, 2019:

"Lori- our deepest sympathy. Our Dad?s were such good friends. Dolores just told me as they got older they even compared eye meds. :). Julie (Griffin) christianson. "