Thomas Ripka

Thomas J. "Jake" Ripka, age 57, of Melrose, died Friday, April 24, 2009 at his home in Melrose.

A private family funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 27 at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose with Rev. Vince Lieser officiating. Interment will take place at a later date.

Thomas Ripka was born May 12, 1951 in Melrose to Kenneth and Alice (Voss) Ripka. Tom was an avid hunter. He enjoyed watching baseball and football, listening to music, particularly Jazz music, and being with family and friends.

Survivors include his mother, Alice Ripka of Avon; brothers and sisters, Robert (Dar) Ripka of Rice, Gary Ripka of New Munich, Cheryl (Dan) Meyer of Freeport, Joan Terwey of St. Cloud, and Glen (Cristy) Ripka of Grey Eagle; many nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

Tom was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Ripka; nephew, Elijah Ripka; and grandparents.