Thomas C. Ripple

Thomas C. Ripple, age 80, of Massillon, passed peacefully into his Father's arms on November 5, 2014, at home. He was born May 25, 1934, to Robert and Nancy Elizabeth Ripple. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Michael, great grandson Matthew Woods, brothers Bill, John, Jim and George and sisters Virginia Gardner and Janice Summers. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Alyce (Easterly); daughters Marie Deitz (Rod), Pam Cupari (Randy) and Becky Labriola (John); 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, sister Emma Jean Netzly and many nieces, nephews other family members and friends. He was a graduate of the Washington High School Class of 1952 and a veteran of the U.S. Army. He was employed by Union Drawn Division of Republic Steel for 30 years, until his retirement in 1984. He loved the jobs that filled his retirement -serving as a school crossing guard for almost 20 years at Lake and 10th St. NE, and serving as the loving caretaker of Newmans Creek Cemetery from 1985 until May of 2014, where for the last few years he worked alongside his son Mike. Tom was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church, singing in the Adult Choir from 1956 until May 2014, serving as Sunday School Superintendent and in many other positions of leadership through the years. He had been a softball pitcher and loved to play basketball and golf with friends and family. As a baseball coach he touched many young lives. He was an avid fan and supporter of all of the sports and activities that his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were involved in. Tom loved music and participating in the Lions Club Chorus in their Annual Show. A service to celebrate his life will be held on Sunday, November 9 at Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home, 1100 Wales Rd. NE, Massillon. Calling hours will be held from 12:00-3:00 p.m., with the service beginning at 3:00 p.m.. Pastor Carolyn Nichols and Rev. Lee Peters will officiate. Memorials can be made to Epworth United Methodist Church, 3061 Lincoln Way NE, Massillon, OH 44647 or Crossroads Hospice, 3743 Boettler Oaks Drive, Green, OH 44685. The family wishes to express their grateful appreciation to the nurses and staff of Crossroads Hospice and special caregiver Julienne Ripple.