Les Gene Cripe

Les G. Cripe, 67, of South Whitley, Indiana passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at home surrounded by family. Born December 27, 1956, in Wabash, Indiana, he was a son of the late Robert and Memory (Leininger) Cripe.

Les spent his youth working hard on the family farm in Sidney, Indiana and would knock out his chores to do what he loved, play sports. His strong work ethic would continue throughout his life both at his job and at home. Les started working at Johnson Brothers Sign Company over 35 years ago and later became a co-owner of the company. He was a jack of all trades and was quick to lend a hand to his family.

As a father and a grandfather, Les was always there to show his support. He helped coach his kids’ baseball and softball teams and was a cheerleader for all their other activities. He later loved watching his grandchildren play and was always full of advice, regardless of the sport.

Les was loved by many. He was a calm, kind man and a great listener to all who knew him. He had the best stories, especially from the farm or his adventures on his Harley. 

The loss of Les has left a huge void in his family. His wisdom and guidance have helped shape his children and grandchildren into the people they are today. Les was very loved and will be dearly missed. 

Les is survived by his loving wife, Jane; children, Todd (Joyce) Cripe and Caroline (Chad) Downing; grandchildren, Katelyn and Madison Cripe, Casen and Cora Downing; siblings, David Cripe, Douglas (Voila) Cripe, Becky (Alan) Burton, Dennis (Carol) Cripe, Kathy (David) Fahl, Tammy (John) Perry, Brian (Kim) Cripe, and Valerie (Verlin) Craig; many nieces and nephews; mother-in-law, LuLu Rudd; sister-in-law, Cheryl Wright; and brother-in-law, John (Darlene) Rudd. He was also preceded in death by a son, James Cripe; father-in-law, Thomas Rudd; brothers-in-law, David Rudd and Don Wright; sister-in-law, Linda Cripe; and niece, Mary Beth Wright.

Visitation will be 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on Saturday, October 26, 2024, with a Memorial Service at 12:00 pm at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Memorial donations may be given in memory of Les to the American Lung Association or the American Heart Association. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send Les’ family online condolences or sign the online guest book.