Donald Ripka

Donald R. Ripka, 62, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away Sunday evening, April 26, 2015 at his home. Born July 24, 1952 in Bellefonte, PA, he was a son of Peggy Young Ripka Brooks and the late Donald “Pete” Ripka. Donald retired from the US Army after twenty-two years of service. He was a veteran of Desert Storm. Following his retirement from the military he was employed with the US Government as a Property Book Officer and Program Analyst, retiring from Defense Information System Agency on September 27, 2014. He was a member of Chambersburg Brethren In Christ Church; Charles Nitterhouse Post 1599 VFW; and Burt J. Asper Post 46 American Legion.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Kim Privett Ripka, whom he married October 7, 2000; three children, Tyler Keele of Ft. Wayne, IN, Zachary Keele (wife Brittany) of Waynesboro; and Suzanne Ripka of Chambersburg; two grandchildren, Kaylie Keele, and Carolyn Bobbit; two sisters, Barbara Fetzer of Texas and Nancy LaRocca of Virginia; and a brother, Russell Ripka of Georgia. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his step-father, Luther Brooks; a daughter, Shannon Ripka; two brothers, Michael and Danny Ripka; and a sister, Gail Stewart.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society, Franklin Fulton Unit, 924 N. Colonial Avenue, York, PA 17403.

A memorial service to celebrate Donald’s life will be held at 8:00 PM Thursday, April 30, 2015 at Chambersburg Brethren In Christ Church, 465 Center Street, Chambersburg, PA with Rev. Kevin Witter officiating. Interment will be private. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.