Omer John Rupiper

Omer John Rupiper lost his courageous battle with cancer June 23, 2007 at the age of 90. He was born in Crofton, Nebraska in 1917 and graduated from high school there. Omer was a life long educator, beginning his career as a high school teacher before he was called to war. He served in the Army in World War II in the 301st Engineer Combat Battalion and was discharged in 1945. He had earned a ride home from Europe on the Queen Mary. After the war, Omer met and married Ruth Ann Fletcher of Orchard, Nebraska in 1946. He continued his education and received his Doctor of Education degree from the University of Kansas in 1956 and his Ph.D in 1977. In 1956, Omer and Ruth moved to Norman, Oklahoma so he could continue his career as a professor at the University of Oklahoma. During the late 1950's and early 1960's, Omer would not hesitate to assist minority students at a time when others would not. Omer became Professor Emeritus from OU in 1982. He also enjoyed building things and refinishing furniture with his daughter, Ann. While Omer and Ruth divorced in 1978, they remained life long friends. He is survived by Ruth; his twin brother, Jerry and Bridget Rupiper of Yankton, SD; his daughter, Ann and Tony Cole, grandson, Cody Blevins, all of Norman; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Omer enjoyed helping people and assisted many of his students to obtain their advanced degrees. A rosary and prayer vigil will be held Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 7:00 pm at the John M. Ireland Funeral Home & Chapel located at 120 S. Broadway in Moore. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at 10:00 am at St. Andrew's Catholic Church located at 800 NW 5th St. in Moore. Services are under the direction of the John M. Ireland Funeral Home & Chapel.