Richard E. Riipi
NEGAUNEE — Richard Ernest “Rich” Riipi, age 70, of Negaunee, passed away peacefully at his home on the basin, on July 4, 2021, in the loving care of his family, following a battle with pulmonary fibrosis.
Born September 25, 1950, in Hancock, a son of Ernest and Mildred (Lexson), Rich was raised in Stanton Township.
He grew up in the ranks of junior hockey, playing for the Portage Lake Flyers and the Copper Country Chiefs.
Following graduation from Houghton High School in 1968, Rich attended the University of Wisconsin, where he played hockey and later returned to the Copper Country to work for Valley Plumbing and Heating in Dollar Bay. He became a journeyman plumber, joining Union Local 111, working multiple jobs through the union. He was later employed with Industrial Piping and John E. Green Mechanical Contracting, retiring as regional supervisor of the Upper Peninsula.
On October 7, 1972, Rich was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Georgia Hainault. Together the couple enjoyed family activities, especially following the hockey pursuits of their children and grandchildren. The couple also enjoyed spending time at their home on the basin surrounded by family and close friends and wintering in Florida at Marco Island. Rich also loved a good round of golf, going to deer camp, and, in later years, fishing.
In addition to his parents, Rich was preceded in death by a sister, Elsa Strayer and a brother, Alfred Dawes.
Rich is survived by his loving wife, of 48 years, Georgia; his three children, Linnea and her children, Ian Adams, Theo Adams, and Quinn Adams; Sonja (Calvin) Dellies and their children, Austin, Drew Dellis, Jaylee Dellis, Easton Dellis, Evan Dellis; and Ryan (Sherida) and their children, Owen and Nash; his brother, Matt (Linda) of Marquette; his nieces and nephews, Erin, Adam Strayer, and Lauren Strayer; his best Dead River friend, Steve Krook; and his AKA smart dog, Ruby.
Honoring his request, private family services will be held.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Marquette Senior Redmen Varsity Hockey, c/o 310 W. Washington Street, Marquette, MI 49855.
Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.