George Ripple

George Frank Ripple Jr.  age 98, of Fairview and formerly of Irwin, PA passed away peacefully on Monday, June 27, 2022 at his son’s residence surrounded by his family and his faith as he entered eternal life.

George was known by a variety of names throughout his years; George, Frank, Junior, Rip, Uncle Rip, Pop, and for the last 24 years he was known simply as “Pappy”.

He was born on August 14, 1923 in Windber, PA a son of the late George and Irma Abbott Ripple. 

Following high school, he served his country both in WWII as an Army Air Corp radio operator in the South Pacific and in the Korean Conflict. He was a proud veteran who received numerous commendations and enjoyed sharing his memories and stories. Upon his return, he worked for Berwind White Coal Company as a painter/contractor. He later owned and contracted through Windber Paint and Wallpaper. Windber was always in his heart and he enjoyed reminiscing of his early years and life.

Taking employment with Sherwin Williams Company until his retirement in 1983, he and his wife moved to Irwin, PA and raised their family. His paint store was located in Monroeville, PA at the famed “Miracle Mile” and became the local stomping ground where contractors and local celebrities frequented. 

Throughout his years, George belonged to several different Roman Catholic parishes and was always active and supportive of whatever project or event was occurring. 

For the last twenty five years he lived with Michael, Wendy, and Isaac.  It was during these later years that he took on the name and became known as “pappy”. He always busied himself with some home projects, from dipping the paint brush to refinishing furniture and riding the mower. Pappy’s deep love of music inspired a few musicians in the family and on occasion, he was known to pick up his old violin. He loved automobile treks and travel, from grocery store trips to religious pilgrimages to Medugorje, Pappy enjoyed the moment. He continued to stay in touch with family and friends up to his last days, looking forward to the calls from his sister, and was grateful to his nephews for their continued relationship.

Pappy was always there to share a smile and lend support. He lived through the many paths and lives of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Pappy will be remembered in many different ways from his witty smile to a simple word of encouragement, but there was always that one moment of a soft look from his blue eyes that invited you into his heart, faith, and love. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Alberta Rosenbaum Ripple in 1991 and his sister,Geraldine (John) Ivey.

He is survived by his sister, Doris (John) Ripper, a daughter Claudia (Kirk) Schabacker of New Jersey; two sons, George “Uncle G” Ripple of Fairview; Michael (Wendy) Ripple of Fairview; three grandchildren: Matthew (Chrissy) Schabacker, Elizabeth Ann (Aaron Avalos); and Isaac Ripple; five great grandchildren: Cami, Allie, Jason, Nico and Mila; and several nieces and nephews. 

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter’s Cathedral and burial in Irwin Cemetery. Arrangements Entrusted to the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, Downtown, 602 West 10^th St. Send condolences at BurtonQuinnScott.com 

The family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers, support, care, and love during this time.

“In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us to shine on those who dwell in the darkness and shadow of death” 

Well done Pappy! Good and faithful servant!