David A. Cripe

I just wanted to express my condolences to David's family. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I'll be especially praying for my uncle Harvey, David's father. I'm sure this must be very difficult for him.

My memories of David are limited to a few Christmas reunions as a child. I remember him talking to me (he was 12 years older than me)and trying to encourage me in athletics. I'm sure he must have been a fantastic coach, father, and grandfather.

I just learned yesterday, during my son't graduation party, that Dave (I still fondly refer to him as "Coach") had passed away. He was the assistant coach during my junior year ('78-'79), and the head coach during my senior year ('79-'80) at Piqua (Ohio) High School. What Coach might have lacked in technical direction, having been a former heavyweight wrestler, he certainly made up for in work ethic. We were conditioned to be able to wrestle full-go for at least 12 minutes, and often...

Dad,
I love you and miss you so much. Of all the things I experienced and learned from you I can't even put into words what it meant for me to see you with my son. He loves you so much and you will always be his "buddy".

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ruth Anne,
We are very sad to hear of your loss. We cherish the ones we love and cannot begin to understand what you are going thru. Please know we will keep you in our prayers.