Edward "Ed" J. Ripp

MADISON - Edward Joseph Ripp was born on January 28, 1937, in Madison, Wis., to Hubert and Anna Ripp, and graduated from Edgewood High School in 1956. He served honorably in the Air National Guard from 1955 to 1968, instilling in him the values of reliability, quiet dedication, and a strong sense of duty that would guide him throughout his life.

On May 21, 1966, Ed and Marlene Bartle married, and later they were blessed with two children, Patrick and Michelle.

Since 1967, they have been members of St. Dennis Church. For many years, Ed assisted in counting the day’s Offertory and volunteered in the yearly Festival. Ed’s faith held immense importance for him, and he closed each day in prayer.

His career culminated at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he worked for 20 years in the mail department of the School of Music. His role connected him daily with faculty, staff, and students, making him a familiar and welcoming presence in the school’s halls.

Ed enjoyed classic cars and airplanes, occasionally attending the annual air show in Oshkosh and following UW men’s basketball and football.

In 2007, Ed was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Over the next 19 years, he faced the challenges of the illness with perseverance and dignity. Those close to him admired his resilience and the grace with which he navigated each new obstacle. For many years, Marlene cared for him with patience and devotion as they faced the challenges of the disease together. Even as the disease progressed, Ed’s patience, gentle humor, and appreciation for life remained evident to everyone around him.

Above all, Ed’s character was defined by his quiet generosity. He freely gave of his time and attention, believed in looking out for others, and treated people with warmth and respect. He will be remembered for his generous spirit and the kindness he showed throughout his life. That same warmth was evident in moments with family, including the delight he took in showing his wide-eyed grandchildren their first fireflies.

Ed is survived by his wife of 59 years, Marlene Ripp; their son, Patrick Ripp (Stacy Eldemar and children, Daemon and Sheridan). He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Anna Ripp; sister, Alice; daughter, Michelle; and grandson, Allen.

A graveside service will be held at RESURRECTION CATHOLIC CEMETERY, 2705 Regent St., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Thursday March 19, 2026.  

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

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420