Richard Warren “Rich” Ripka, 78, of Galesburg, passed away Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at home.
Rich was born November 16, 1943 in Kewanee, Illinois, the son of Guy W. and Marjorie M. (Kildow) Ripka. He graduated from high school in 1961 and later received his associates degree from Carl Sandburg College. Rich served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1966. He was joined in holy matrimony to Ruth Ann Hutchins on June 4, 1971 in Rock Island, IL. Rich worked at Caterpillar for several years, later earning his CDL and worked as an OTR truck driver for 13 years prior to retiring.
Rich was a true believer in God and enjoyed reading scripture and studying the bible. He will be remembered for his numerous “dad jokes” that he loved to share with his family and his ability to fix anything, usually with duct tape. Rich enjoyed archery and shooting guns, whether it was for hunting or target practice. He was a charismatic social butterfly and no matter where he traveled, he never met a stranger.
Left to cherish Richard’s memory is his loving wife of fifty years, Ruth A. Ripka of Galesburg; three sons: Brian (Brandi Corbin) Ripka of Galesburg, Joshua (Ashley Huddleston) Ripka of Yates City, IL, and Guy (Taylor Pichon) Ripka of Peoria, IL; three daughters: Lori Tranquilino of Bloomington, IA, Elizabeth (James) Gast of Peoria, IL, and Gabrielle Ripka of Galesburg; twelve grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother, James Ripka of Kewanee; one sister, Nancy Johnston of Kewanee; and his beloved cats. Rich was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Guy Ripka.
Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to The River Church of Tampa, FL. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
