David A. Ripple, 73, of Fort Wayne, passed away Saturday afternoon, July 18, 2026, at Stillwater Hospice Home in Fort Wayne.
David was born in Bluffton on Oct. 30, 1952, to Russell A. and Janet R. (Faus) Ripple. Both parents preceded him in death.
A 1971 graduate of Norwell High School, David then served in the United States Navy from September of 1971 until September of 1975. He later graduated from Indiana Purdue University in Fort Wayne in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
David was a hair stylist in Fort Wayne for his entire career. He was a member of the Al-Anon Fort Wayne Chapter for many years. He was a world traveler, which included being a member of many mission trips. He was a quiet philanthropist, in which he especially enjoyed cutting hair for a homeless veterans shelter in Fort Wayne for many years. David loved his cats and will be remembered for being a private and gentle soul to those who knew him.
Survivors include a brother, Daniel R. Ripple of Fort Wayne; and a sister-in-law, Rose Ripple of Fort Wayne.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by a brother, Douglas E. Ripple.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Ossian, 701 S. Jefferson St., Ossian, IN, at 10 a.m., officiated by Chaplain Dewey Randall. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the American Legion Post 111 of Bluffton in conjunction with the United States Navy honor guard.
Goodwin – Harnish Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Bluffton has been entrusted with David’s arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Al-Anon or the organization of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be shared at www.goodwinharnish.com.