James “Jim” Ripp

James “Jim” C. Ripp, 93, of De Soto, WI, made his journey to Heaven Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Memorial services will be held Saturday, May 17 at 1:30 p.m. at Saint Charles Church in Genoa, WI. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to the charity of your choosing.

James “Jim” Cornelius Ripp was born February 28, 1931, in Watertown, WI, to Christian and Elizabeth (Geraths) Ripp. He was the eighth of 11 children. The family moved to Cross Plains, WI, and Jim attended Middleton High School, graduating in 1949.

After high school, Jim joined the United States Army. He served three years, was honorably discharged, and returned to Cross Plains. He attended University of Wisconsin Extension School for Engineering to become a civil engineer.

He met his wife, Doris (Wermuth) Ripp, through mutual friends. They were married October 8, 1955, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Madison, WI. He worked for the State of Wisconsin for several years before going to work for Edward Kraemer and Sons Construction in Plain, WI. In 1970, Jim moved his family to Oconomowoc, WI, when he started working for Payne and Dolan Construction, where he would retire after 25 years of service.

In 2000, Jim and Doris moved to De Soto, WI, where they built their dream home overlooking the Mississippi River. Jim was an avid hunter and fisher; recalling some of his favorite memories at the Brokaw Cabin with close family, friends, and his sons. He was a supporter of his local Lions Club. Jim was proud to be a veteran and supported several veterans’ organizations. Most recently, he was proclaimed the Last Man Standing from the group of 47 men who joined the Army out of Cross Plains in 1949.

Jim and his wife were avid travelers, having visited many places around the world together in their retirement. Jim was a devout member of Saint Charles Church and will always be remembered for his unwavering faith.

Jim was a humble giant. He is loved and cherished by many. Many looked to him as a friend and mentor. Jim was stoic in nature with a kind heart and was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed.

He was preceded in death by his wife Doris, who was the love of his life. He is survived by his three children: Susan (Barry) Baird, Timothy (Terri) Ripp, and Kenneth (Carrie) Ripp; five grandchildren: Erin (Brent) Conrad, Jessica Williams, Sara Nelson, Ashley (Troy) Knox, and Jacob Ripp; and eight great-grandchildren: Lincoln Conrad, Elena and Hudson Williams, Addie and Crosby Nelson, and Jayden, Parker, and Logan Knox.

Online condolences may be left at www.martinfunerals.com.