John Ernest Rippon

RIPPON John Ernest Age 80, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2008, after a short illness. Born in Abbotsford in 1927, he moved at age 10 with his family to their home on lnglewood in West Vancouver. In 1949, he married his West Van High School sweetheart, Betty. After raising a family in West Van, they moved to Qualicum Beach in 1994. His career path led him from Woodwards management at Park Royal, to representing Rolex watches for Western Canada, and later to becoming a top West Van realtor. John challenged himself with Outward Bound, the West Coast Trail and marathons. He enjoyed his morning run or walk right up to a few weeks before his death. John enjoyed traveling the world with Betty, as well as gardening, photography and golfing at the Capilano Golf Club, where he was a long-time member. Many life-long friends were made through both the Vancouver and Calgary Kinsmen. He is predeceased by grandson Geoffrey Chatelain and his sister Gertrude Frost. He is survived by his wife Betty and his children Leslie (Gerry), David (Christie), Donald, and grandchildren Christine, Jennifer, Stephen, Matt and Dan. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Fund, BC Cancer Agency would be appreciated. The family extends sincere gratitude to the wonderful staff at Nanaimo General Hospital Palliative Care Unit.