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Ray Gripentrog Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ray Gripentrog
Anne Monarski Ganka
May 6, 2008
Dear Trudy and Family,
My thoughts and prayers have been with you since I heard of your loss of Ray at the McDonell Alumni Banquet last weekend. He will be missed but never forgotten by those whose lives he touched. Even after all these years (I graduated in 1961) I recall the positive roll model he was for all students. As I read his obituary, I realized he gave much to his family and more to his church, community and sports in Wisconsin. You can take pride in the life he lead and the example he set for your family and everyone he knew. May you all find peace as he has found peace in the Lord's arms.
Jackie Cherrier
May 5, 2008
Dear Gripentrog Family,
The Cherrier family was all sorry to hear about Mr Gripentrog. We feel your sadness of your loss and yet know what joy you can feel as you celebrate the life of such a great man. Thank you Mr Gripentrog, for moving your family across the street from ours on Prairie street, Chippewa Falls. Thank you, Coach, for giving that real football to this tomboy kid who was in awe of you----Coach Gripentrog. You were always the Coach.
Our deepest sympathy to you, Mrs Gripentrog, Maria, and all the Gripentrog Family.
Sincerely,
Jackie and the Cherrier Family
Christina Rukavina
May 3, 2008
Dear Ann,
Your dad was a sweetheart and put up with our shenanigans with good humor. I know my brother (QB at Dominican) greatly enjoyed being coached by such a positive and encouraging man.
Alan Fritz
April 30, 2008
My Prayers are with the entire Gripentrog family. Coach Gripentrog was one of a kind. He taught me many things not only about football but also about life itself. Thanks "Coach" for all you did for everybody, you will be missed.
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Tisha Jones
April 27, 2008
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Terry Smith
April 22, 2008
I didn't know Grip for very long, but concidered him a friend. He took an interest in me and got me into Senior VB. He was a tireless worker and always had a smile on his face. He was liked and respected by all who knew him.
Greg Lutz
April 22, 2008
Coach Grip will be greatly missed. I graduated from Nicolet in 1985 and I was lucky to have played for him on both his baseball and football teams. Some of my best memories and closest friendships were formed on those fields. We speak often of the good old days at Nicolet, and Coach Grip was a big part of them. He taught us a lot about winning, losing and many of life's lessons. I thank Coach Grip for all that he did for me and my friends. We are all better because of him.
Robert Petrie
April 21, 2008
Ray Gripentrog was our varsity baseball coach at Dominican in 1972, and in retrospect, was nice enough to let me hang on as the 17th player on the team, even though there were just 16 1/2 varsity uniforms to go around, and I was your classic no-hit, no-field player. (I got the varsity top and the JV pants, but hey, it was still the varsity!)
Notwithstanding my presence on the ballclub, the Knights were pretty good that season; one of our pitchers, Dan McGurk, threw a no-hitter, we had some decent hitters like Dan Cox and Chris Moroder, a catcher named Tom Barragry who could lay down a mean sacrifice bunt and backhand any pitch thrown to him, and we made the playoffs, something that didn't happen too often back then for sports teams at Dominican.
Coach even found a way to get me into two games at second base, one in which I caught a popup -- a major league, sky-high popup, mind you -- which to this day I still can't believe landed in my glove. My line also made the prep box score in the Sentinel the next day ... Petrie 2b 0-0-0.
Since moving from Arizona back to Wisconsin five years ago, I had the pleasure of crossing paths with Ray twice; once at my brother's restaurant in Mequon in '04, where Ray was setting up the annual Knights of Columbus dinner, and another time when I was getting tires at Sears in Bayshore sometime in '05, and he was walking the mall with his wife. Both times he was gracious with his time and was interested in hearing what I was doing and chatting about the old baseball teams at DHS. It was really nice talking with him.
My condolences and thoughts are with Ray's family. He will be missed by the many students he taught and coached in his many decades in education.
Bob Beck
April 21, 2008
Dear Gripentrog Family,
You have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since I learned of the passing of "Coach Grip."
My first memory of him was when I a St. Monica second-grader (and a classmate of John). Your family had just moved from Chippewa Falls so that Ray could become Dominican's coach. I remember the Coach then as dynamic, professional, and loaded with authority.
The last time I spoke with Ray was after a Lenten "Stations of the Cross" service this spring at St. Monica's that he had led with his wife (Trudy). He remained a man of great faith, who routinely put that faith into action, with his beloved spouse at his side.
What a wonderful legacy for his family! What a compelling example for all who knew him.
May the Lord bless you all.
Dave Hansen
April 21, 2008
It is a sad day for all of us who knew Coach Grip. I'll always have great memories of Nicolet football during the 3 years I played for him...his intensity, passion and desire were just a few of his qualities! Thanks for the memories, Coach...you will be missed!!!
Tammy Winn
April 20, 2008
“Grip” was a good friend to our family. Some examples include how he coached my brother Danny with a lasting impression; he endorsed my service work in Germany and Kenya through his affiliation with the Catholic Knights; he spent time with my Dad before he died; and he brought my mom communion in the hospital while she was dying. We belonged to the same parish, St. Monica's, and Grip was the acolyte for my mom's funeral.
Grip was a good, good man from our experience - so vibrant, full of life, and so giving of his time and resources. I will miss seeing him around town, but I count on his presence to remain - now among the angels. I hope he and my parents are hanging out at a good ballgame together in heaven! All of the Winns love you "Grip!"
Nancy Price
April 20, 2008
Dear Gripentrog Family,
I was saddened to hear of Ray's passing but know that he is on his way through a new wonderful journey of the soul. I remember him fondly as the proud and supportive grandpa of Brionna for so many years as he attended plays, performances, and presentations of which she was a part at the Tamarack Waldorf School. It was an honor to serve such a fine family and a pleasure to become acquainted with both Ray and Trudy through the years. My condolences to all of you. I watched the Pope's mass today and said a prayer for you all. I will keep you in my thoughts in the weeks to come.
Ed Zagorski III
April 20, 2008
I extend my greatest sympathies to the Gripentrog family. Mr. Grip or "The Gripper" as I called him always wanted the best for his students. He knew I was too small to play football, but continued to encourage me to go out for a sport in high school, which I did. If it wasn't for him I may not have joined the track team. Thanks Mr. Grip. You will be missed.
Gerald R. Turner
April 20, 2008
Family and Friends: I knew coach Gripentrog thru Nicolet where all of my children attended. Coach was a disciplined and supportive person and we benefitted from our association with him. We are all grateful and appreciative of his contribution to our children's education and the encouragement he lent. May he be blessed for all of his good deeds. He will be remembered by all who benefitted by rubbing shoulders with him.
Nancy Vose
April 20, 2008
Dear Trudy and family,
My sincere sympathy to you all in the loss of Ray. May peace be with all of you in this very stressful time. If I can be of any help, feel free to call.
Jim & Diane Ertl
April 19, 2008
We will miss Ray for his inspiration and motivation that he has given to us throughout his life. I have coached for 30 years and always have had a connection with Ray. His character and passion for coaching has helped make me a better person.
I will miss him, but hope to keep his spirit alive in the kids that I work with in the future.
Jim
Janice vogt Hauf
April 19, 2008
Dear Family, I am a DHS graduate of 73 and was saddened to read of Coach Grips passing. I immediately told my husband what a dear, sweet man he was. I think he always had a smile on his face! Heaven has gained a wonderful resident. God bless you, Janice Vogt Hauf
Brian Shanahan
April 19, 2008
Dear Gripentrogs,
It is with much regret and sadness that I learned of Ray's passing. He was a great man- a consumate family man. Someone whom I admired and looked up to thoughout my years of frienship with him and his family. I'll miss his updates on John, the Brewers or the state of World Affairs, whenever I would run into him. He will truly be missed.
GARY BOLSTER
April 19, 2008
TRUDY AND FAMILY. SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. I KNEW RAY FOR A SHORT TIME WHILE BUILDING YOUR CONDO. ALWAYS ENJOYED HIS CONVERSATIONS AND WIT. HE IS IN MY PRAYERS. GOD BLESS. TAKE CARE. GARY
Carole Cohen
April 19, 2008
Steve and Family: My prayers are with you in your time of sorrow. Your dad was and still is a great influence on all who have had the blessing of knowing him.
Kevin Michalowski, Jr.
April 19, 2008
My condolences. One of the greatest guys I ever came in contact with. He was old school but could relate to everyone. I have an anecdote to share with you.
I remember like it was yesterday when he came up to this scrawny
little 8th grader at a Punt, Pass and Kick competition at St. Monica's
and said in his gravely voice, "Hey, Mi(ck)alowski, you going to
Nicolet?" I said yes and he responded, "Football practice starts
August 1st, you better be there." I responded "Yes sir!" He fires back, "Don't call me sir, call me Coach Grip"
Nate Michalowski
April 19, 2008
It ia a sad day. I got Coach Grip stories that could fill volumes.
One of the best times in my life was the summer of '89 playing for Coach Grip.
He taught us a lot, let us have fun, and regaled us with stories about
his playing days in Class C ball in Platteville. I used to do my Grip
impression for all the guys and if he caught me, he'd just laugh right
along, with his jovial face. I also had him for gym class and when he'd
catch us playing home run derby during the tennis unit he'd say
"Michalowski, Herkowski, you better go pick up all those tennis balls...
nice swing though."
I'm heading to a ballgame tonight... I'll be thinking of Grip
ROB SCHENKER
April 19, 2008
HE TOUCHED MANY LIVES.
Peter and Jill Hauck
April 18, 2008
Trudy and Family: Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the family. Ray made a tremendous impact on our lives living in Glendale. It was a pleasure serving with him on the Plan Commission. We'll always remember his generosity to the entire community. "Grip" was one of a kind.
J Kramer
April 18, 2008
"Grip" made an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of all those who had an opportunity to be coached by him at Nicolet.
More than ever, those from the classes of '89 and '90. In his last year coaching at Nicolet, in the final game of the year, the Knights of Nicolet upset the 'playoff-bound' Blue Dukes of Whitefish Bay, sending them home, knocking them out of a playoff birth. In the words of Grip, that game, "will always be the richest memory in my career". I often look at the letter he wrote to every player who was part of that season for inspiration and memories. He will be missed. Thanks Grip!
Nancy Fisher (Haas now Haselow)
April 18, 2008
Trudy and family,
I was sorry to hear of Ray's passing, he was a great man. I have thought of all of you often My babysitting for all of the girls was one of my first jobs and I loved it and the girls. My sympathy to all of you. He was also a great teacher and coach. He was loved by all.
With love and prayers,
Nancy Haselow
My sincere condolences to the family.
Duane Haselow (class of 58 Owen-Withee HS)
Jeanette Santoski
April 18, 2008
Trudy
We only met Ray once, but we enjoyed his company at Aunt Margaret's 100th birthday. Our condolences to you and the family.
Clem and Jeanette (See) Santoski
Erika Petras
April 18, 2008
My sincere sympathy to all of Coach Grip's family. I treasure memories of our friendship during my years as Manager of the football team at Nicolet. Coach was always kind, sincere and thoughtful...a true example of a life well lived. Heaven just keeps getting better...
Chrissy Catalano-West
April 18, 2008
Dear Therese, Scott and Family,
I knew your dad before I knew you! He was one of my favorite teachers at DHS. I was terribly saddened by his passing. He was always such a great cheerleader at Ellie's basketball, volleyball and soccer games. He will always be there in spirit.
Jim and Jean Reiels
April 18, 2008
Trudy & Family, We were greatly saddened to learn of Ray's passing. What a fine, loving, caring, God-fearing man. Countless students, fellow teachers and friends are more fulfilled for having known him. He was a real asset to our Nicolet faculty. He will be greatly missed by all. Our deepest sympathy to you.
In sorrow,
Jim and Jean Reiels
Mike Crivello
April 18, 2008
Dear Gripentrog Family,
With sadness I received the news of Ray's passing, but then thoughts of his full and rich life and admiration for his great family quickly dispelled that sadness. Ray taught and coached friends of mine, he was a great man to work with at Dominican High, and I'll always remember his energy, generosity, and affable smile. Ray will be missed, but his memory and spirit will always live. God bless you all.
Judy Duncan-Ramaker
April 18, 2008
Dear Ann and family, My sister called to tell me of your dad's pasing. I am sorry for your loss. My dad has been gone for 22yrs, my mother 17yrs and I still miss them. There are so many times I would like to talk to them. I know you will miss your dad too. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Condolences to the whole family.
Ronnie & Jeff Stuck
April 18, 2008
The North Shore was a better place because of Ray. He was so welcoming and caring. His ability to stay on top of important issues in Glendale kept us all on our toes. It was always a pleasure to run into Ray and Trudy at civic dinners for Glendale. He has left a lasting impression with us. Thank you Ray
Louie Kaminski
April 18, 2008
My condolences to the entire family.
Although, I never played football for him, I did assist him with the baseball team at Thorp. In fact, as a senior, and due to Ray coaching baseball and track at the time, I had the opportunity to coach the Thorp baseball team at Owen-Withee and believe it or not we beat them! I will never forget that and the confidence he had in me in allowing me to take on that responsibility. I will remember him and the family in my prayers.
Maryann Crivello-Huth
April 18, 2008
Dear Family of Ray:
While I didn't know Ray well, my dad - Leo enjoyed and admired him so very much. Our families are sorry for the loss of this busy, thoughtful man - he will be missed. May your fun and sweet memories keep your spirits high and may God bless and sustain you through your sadness.
Jon Krill
April 18, 2008
Dear Gripentrogs:
What a full life! I'm happy for my occasional chances to chat with Ray--he was always thoughtful, interested and kind. Furthermore, he appreciated a good long-snapper, even if a bit rusty. Along with Mrs. G, he put some very good people into my life, especially John, an invaluable friend.
My thoughts and thanks are yours.
Kevin Michalowski, Sr.
April 18, 2008
To the Gripentrog Family: Our condolences. The world is a lesser place today. Ray was truly one of the nicest people I have ever met. He made a huge impact on the lives of my two oldest sons. They both still talk about "Grip" everytime we get together. God Bless and keep him.
Jim Lenahan
April 18, 2008
Trudy and Family,
Words cannot describe the loss of Ray. What a great person. I have known Ray for years and worked side by side at numerous golf outings and the All Faiths Night. He was truly a great friend and will be missed by many.
Mary and Bud Brauer
April 18, 2008
Dear Family,
Our deepest sympathies go out to all of you. He was our alderman at one time, but you don't actually know us. All I can say though is that there wasn't a friendlier man in church every morning at St. Monica's. Never saw him without a smile on his face. The empty pew stands as a daily reminder of his passing. God bless.
Steve Meyers
April 18, 2008
Dear Aunt Trudy and Family:
We were so sad to hear of the news of Uncle Ray's death on Wednesday. The world lost a great man this week, and God gained a great soul. Uncle Ray was an inspiration to us as educators. A teacher leaves a great legacy, and Uncle Ray certaily touched thousdands through teaching, coaching and his very active involvement in the church and community. Our prayers are with all of you as you feel the pain of such great loss. May your faith and memories give you comfort.
Love,
Steve and Sue Meyers
Steven, Brittany, Rachel and Kendra
Patrick Reiff
April 18, 2008
My condolences to the entire family, Ray will be missed at the Knights of Columbus.
Respectfully, Brother Knight
Patrick Reiff Council 524 Greenfield
Anne and Joe Rice
April 18, 2008
Dearest Trudy and family,
We re so sorry for your loss and St Monica's has lost as great one. All his efforts behind the scenes re so appreciated by us. I learned so much from him both at Dominican and St Monica's. He was a true ervant to all and a great gentleman able to work and contribute greatly til his last day on this earth May your fond memories and faith sustain you at this time. Blessings to all of you.
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