David Ripp

David Ripp

September 30, 1955 - January 24, 2026

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Obituary

CROSS PLAINS - David Joseph Ripp, age 70, of Cross Plains, passed away at home on Saturday, January 24, 2026. He was born on September 30, 1955, in Milwaukee, the son of Joseph and Rosemarie (Lauber) Ripp.


David graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, then attended the Rhode Island School of Design and taught Architectural Design at the Art Institute of Atlanta. He then moved to New York City where he made his home for over 30 years, starting and running his own design business. Upon retiring in 2019, he made his way back to Cross Plains.


David was a voracious reader and also found much joy in landscaping around his home, experimenting with new and different types of plantings.  He enjoyed spending time outside with his beloved dog, Ginger, while talking to neighbors and people out for their daily walks. David loved his family deeply and always looked forward to seeing them. He was especially excited about the recent additions of a great-niece and nephew.


David is survived by his sister, DiAnna (Don) Knutson of Cross Plains; nephews and niece, Nicholas (Shannon) Kooyman of Denver, Layne (Karen Keegan) Knutson of Minneapolis, Darrick Knutson of Minneapolis, and Carrie Knutson of Middleton; great-niece, Sutton Kooyman; and great-nephew, Finn Keegan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Rosemarie Ripp.

 

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON CROSS PLAINS FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2421 Church St., Cross Plains, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026. A private family inurnment will take place at St. Francis Xavier Columbarium.

 

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson Cross Plains
Funeral & Cremation Care
2421 Church St.
(608) 798-3141





Events

14
Visitation
Sat Feb 14, 2026 @ 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Cross Plains Funeral & Cremation Care • 2421 Church St., Cross Plains, WI 53528
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David
AR
A Memorial Tree was planted for David Joseph Ripp
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Cross Plains
JZ
Joyce Zander
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Dianna, I am so sorry to hear about David. I hadn’t seen David in awhile, especially after I moved away in 2022. I will always remember him as a classmate at St. Francis and times he was back from New York visiting Rosie. I remember our conversations about Judge Judy when he did a lot of designing for her. When I still lived in CP I’d drive by the house to see if he was out gardening. The garden always looked so nice. I will always remember our visits, dinners with him and Rosie and Mom. Treasure the memories and know you and your family are in my prayers. Sending my love and hugs. Joyce Zander
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Otto and Cheryl Alber
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Moving to Cross Plains in 2022, David became our landlord and also a good neighbor. He shared with us many stories of his life here, which made us feel more connected to this community right away. David was considerate, kind and helpful in many ways. We appreciated his artful way of gardening and his love for his dog, Ginger. He also was always happy to see our grandchildren, and gave them treats and presents. We miss him! Otto and Cheryl Alber
JB
Jane Bridges
Other •
Dave- I’m going to miss you being just down the street. I will miss our chats, and your stories, everything from people and politics to plants and family, food and music, and more. I will miss tours of the “Ripp Estate” gardens (the yard and rock wall) - seeing all your newly planted Lantana, and succulents. I will miss trading plants with you- love the little Mouse-ear hosta you gave me. I will miss your creativity, your honesty, your friendship. I will miss you, my friend. May the Angels lead you into paradise, may the Martyrs come to welcome you, and take you to the Holy City, the New and Eternal Jerusalem. In pace Requiescat. Jane Bridges
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Anne Koeppe
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Dave was a kind, down-to-earth, generous guy, with an artist's eye and sensibilities. I would love to have seen some of his design work from NY. Dave and I had many chats along the plant-filled rock wall, that he designed and nurtured. One day I was surprised to find a lovely plant on our doorstep with a note from Dave wishing me well on my hip replacement. We were lucky to have Rosie and Dave as neighbors for many years. Anne and Paul Koeppe
TF
The Barco Family
Other •
We loved David! He was a joy to talk to and always positive. He will be missed!

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