Born on Jan. 25, 1942, in Taylor, Texas, to Henry E. Ripple, Sr., and Ann Ripple (Dusek), Henry grew up in a loving home that instilled the values of hard work and faith. He graduated from Taylor High School in 1961 and pursued his passion for engineering, first studying Electrical Engineering at the University of Texas and later earning his Associate Degree in Electronic Technology from Austin Community College. Henry furthered his skills through training at Westinghouse and Texas Instruments, specializing in CADAM and Electromechanical Drafting & Design. Over the years, he worked with various respected companies, including ABC Scientific, Westinghouse Electric & Electromechanics and Taylor Manufacturing.

On Dec. 14, 1963, Henry married the love of his life, Marie Ann Machu, of Granger, Texas. Their bond began at Taylor Brethren Church youth fellowship events and blossomed into a lifetime of devotion and love.

Together, they built their home in Taylor, first on Debus Drive, and later on Heights Boulevard in 1973, where Henry spent the rest of his life.

A dedicated member of the Taylor Brethren Church, Henry’s service spanned nearly six decades. He held numerous leadership roles, including serving on the Board of Directors, the Building Committee and the Board of Elders. In 1965, Henry took over managing the church’s audio system, ensuring the congregation could hear worship services, weddings, funerals and special events. He also managed the sound system and sang with The Taylor Czech Chorus.

He recorded services on cassettes and CDs for those unable to attend, continuing this ministry until 2019. Henry and Marie Ann’s commitment to their church and its community was a cornerstone of their lives.

Henry was a devoted family man who found great joy in spending time with loved ones.

He loved Sunday meals after church and engaging in spirited games of dominoes or CIX. One of his favorite pastimes was troubleshooting electronics and working on TVs.

He was eager to lend a hand and could fix just about anything. Henry was always there with a smile that could light up the room and was known for his humor and sharp wit. He had a knack for making people laugh and bringing positivity wherever he went.

Henry is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ann Ripple, Sr.; his in-laws Ruby and Leslie Loessin; Eugene Machu; and Marvin Machu.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 61 years, Marie Ann Ripple; his daughter, Sherill Engelhardt, and her husband, Rex, of Austin, Texas; his son, Trey Ripple, and his wife, Lynley, of Lakeway, Texas; and his cherished grandchildren, Tanner Engelhardt and his wife, Alden; Tahni Engelhardt; and Paige Ripple. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon Barker, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at the Taylor Brethren Church on Nov. 21, 2024 at 10 a.m.

The funeral will follow at 11 a.m., with graveside services at the Machu Cemetery in Granger, Texas. Lunch will be provided by the Taylor Christian Sisters following the graveside service.

Memorials may be made to Taylor Brethren Church, Christian Sisters, Machu Cemetery or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Pallbearers are Albin Machu, John Stasny, Howard Leshikar, Ted Heijl, Eugene Kokes and James Marek.

Honorary pallbearers are The Taylor Czech Chorus and grandson, Tanner Engelhardt.

The family would like to sincerely thank Angeline Malicoat, Sharon Mikulec, Rose Machu, Debbie Haag and Sandy Strmiska for their loving care this past year.