Merrill “Rip” Ripplinger, 92, of Chesterfield, died peacefully on July 27th at Evelyn’s House in Creve Coeur. Rip was born September 22, 1925 to Theodore and Anna (Streib) Ripplinger. He grew up in South St. Louis, close to the Bevo Mill, and attended Cleveland High School. He served in the US Navy during WWII as a fire control technician, third class, aboard the DD760 John W. Thomason Destroyer. He owned and operated Ripplinger Electric & Machine Works Inc. on Gravois, followed by a long run on the Order Desk at Midwest Tool & Supply in Maryland Heights, after which he retired at the age of 88. He loved the trumpet, which he played professionally at times, and loved animals, particularly Beagles. For thirty-plus years, he had the same morning ritual of heading to McDonald’s for breakfast, where he’d solve the world’s problems with his many friends he made over the years. Rip is preceded in death by his wife, LaVerne (Dill) Ripplinger. He is survived by his daughter, Diane Schumacker, grandson Patrick Schumacker, and great-granddaughter, Hannah Schumacker. The family would like to extend our deepest thanks to the staff at Mercy Hospital and Evelyn’s House, for helping make Rip’s final journey as comfortable as possible. If desired, friends may make donations to Evelyn’s House, Creve Coeur.

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