Donald Rippey

Don Rippey, 88, of Auburn, WA passed away peacefully August 27, 2013. He was born in Mondamin, Iowa and moved to Auburn as a teenager.

Don graduated from Auburn High School and attended the University of Washington. He also served in the Army Air Corp.

Don most recently resided at Wesley Homes Lea Hill in Auburn, WA where he was a volunteer.

In 1950, he purchased his first business selling and repairing lawn mowers and engines, as well as bicycles. In 1973, Don took locksmith classes and made that his main business until his retirement in 1987.

Don was a member of the Rotary Club of Auburn for 53 years, serving as both President in 1965 and treasurer. He was also a long time member of the White River Presbyterian Church.

Don was recently honored by the Mayor of Auburn with a Certificate of Service Award. The award was given on behalf of the Mayor, the Auburn City Council and the Citizen’s of Auburn for Don’s service in volunteerism and business, “making Auburn a better place to work and live.” He was a docent with the White River Valley Museum and a volunteer for Meals on Wheels.

Don enjoyed traveling, reading and photography. He delighted in telling jokes and had a tremendous sense of humor. Don was always a man of great integrity.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Hugh and Ruth Rippey. He is survived by a brother, Dale Rippey; a sister, Erma Calvo; a cousin, Jane Price; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on September 14 at 1:00PM at United First Methodist Church, 100 N Street S.E., Auburn, WA. Remembrances may be made to Rotary Club of Auburn, United First Methodist Church, or the charity of your choice.