Jay Rippel Sr of Columbia County, has gone into the loving arms of his wife Dorothy as of Thursday, September 9th. Dorothy and Jay were married for 62 beautiful years. Jay was an astounding man whose many accomplishments included several years in the military, several more years as a policeman and even more time as a firefighter. He also worked for the Columbia County Correctional Facility as well as GE in Selkirk. Jay Rippel Sr is most fondly remembered as a family man with his 6 biological children and numerous foster children along with 23 grandchildren, many of whom surrounded him as he departed this world. He leaves behind 2 sisters, Lee and Susan as well as his children Betsy, Jay Jr, Michael, Janet, Andrew and William. “Gramps” welcomed his first grandchild into the world 48 years ago and his most recent great grandchild only one year ago for a total of 37 grandchildren and great grandchildren, not including the one on the way. Always quick with a joke, Jay was an active member of the family even at the age of 85, attending all events from graduations to Farmers Markets. An infinite source of stories and jests (and dirty ditties if you were really lucky). Jay will forever live on in his family’s memories and stories and we were so blessed for all the time we had with him. A celebration of life for both Jay Rippel Sr and Dorothy Rippel will be held in the future. To leave condolences, visit wenkfuneralhome.com
