Gary C. Ripley (age 83)

August 16, 1942 – September 17, 2025

Gary C. Ripley, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 17, 2025.

He was born on August 16th, 1942, in Grand Junction, Colorado, to Calvin Ripley and Pauline Perrin-Ripley. Gary was predeceased by his sister, Jan Intagliata. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Joan Tourje Ripley; his daughters, Lisa Williamson and Tara (Thayer) Davis; his cherished grandchildren, Cayden and Rylee Williamson, Taylor and Skylar Davis; his sister, Kay Spinuzzi; his brother, Rick Ripley; and many loving brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Gary attended schools in Grand Junction and Pueblo, Colorado, before enrolling at Southern Colorado Junior College. Responding to the call to serve his country, Gary enlisted in the United States Navy, joining the submarine service. He proudly served for six years, including one year in Vietnam with the “Brown Water Navy”.

Following his military service, Gary worked for 37 years at Diebold Incorporated. His career took him and his family across Colorado, Salt Lake City, Utah, and San Diego, California. After retiring, Gary and Joan returned to Joan’s home state, settling in Canandaigua, New York.

Gary was full of energy and enthusiasm, yet always gentle and kind to everyone he met. He found peace in the outdoors, especially on the water. Life with Joan was an adventure, from nine memorable years living aboard their beloved sailboat, the Believe it or Naut, in San Diego Harbor, to carefree days on the beach and laughter-filled nights camping with family. Through it all, you could find him whistling tunes that seemed to follow him everywhere. His love extended from the melodies he carried to the tasks he took on for family and friends. He had a natural gift for working with his hands; if something was broken, he would find a way to make it whole again. Above all, Gary will be remembered for his devotion to his family.

Gary’s legacy lives on in the lives of those who loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The family sincerely thanks the doctors and care team at the Wilmot Cancer Center in Rochester, New York, as well as the Ontario and Monroe County Hospice Care Teams. They also extend special appreciation to the staff and volunteers of the Advent House in Fairport, New York, for their compassionate care during his final days.

A celebration of life will be held on September 21, 2025, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the American Legion, 454 N. Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Advent House in Fairport, NY, the Ontario County or Monroe County Hospice Associations, or the Wilmot Cancer Center in Rochester, NY.