Richard Earl Ridpath

 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Richard Earl Ridpath, who left us on January 15, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on November 22, 1940, to Fletcher and Polly Ridpath in Indianapolis, IN, Dad lived a life marked by love, kindness, and a deep commitment to his family and friends.

 Dad graduated from Beech Grove High School in 1958, where he was an active and accomplished student. He played football, wrestled, and participated in the historical society, industrial arts club, and band. His passion for learning continued as he earned his degree in engineering from GMI in 1962 and a master’s degree from Purdue University in 1970. Dad dedicated over 50 years of his career to General Motors/Rolls-Royce, where his work exemplified his intellect, creativity, and dedication.

 Throughout his life, Dad cherished the simple joys of family and community. He made lasting memories with his children and grandchildren through annual trips to King’s Island, birthday hayrides, and slumber parties filled with laughter. His creativity shone in the elaborate haunted houses he built, bringing delight to family and friends. A talented craftsman, he even constructed a sailboat with his fraternity brothers in college, a testament to his adventurous and ambitious spirit.

 Dad was a lover of the outdoors and an active participant in sports. He found joy in summers at the Double JJ Ranch in Michigan and annual visits to Brown County during the autumn months to admire the fall foliage. As a longtime member of the Indianapolis Ski Club, he embraced life’s adventures with enthusiasm and an open heart.

 Music was one of Dad’s greatest passions. He loved live performances, particularly jazz, and was a regular at The Jazz Kitchen, where he enjoyed the vibrant music and good company. He also volunteered at the Indy Jazz Fest for many years, proudly supporting the local music community. At family gatherings, his accordion often took center stage, spreading joy and laughter among his loved ones.

 Dad was also a gifted artist, honing his craft at the Indianapolis Art League (now the Indianapolis Art Center). His artistic talents, inherited from his mother Polly, were a source of pride for both him and his family.

 Above all, Dad will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, patience, and generosity. He brought comfort, support, and love to everyone who knew him. His enduring legacy is the countless lives he touched with his compassion and humor.

 A celebration of Dad’s life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in his name.

 Dad is survived by his ex-wife and lifelong friend, Gloria Kocarkova, his sister Karen Graves, his daughters Jamie Ridpath, Becky Ridpath, and Rachael Camphor, and his son Jason Ridpath. His cherished grandchildren—Sidney Dixon, Whitney Outlaw, Zariah Lane, Naomi Franck, and Tawian Johnson—and great-grandchildren—Giovanni Outlaw, Kahlani Hadnott, Dylan Isom, Nola Franck, Zora Franck, Nara Franck, and Dallas Johnson—will forever honor his memory.

 He was preceded in death by his grandson, Xavier Fairley.

 Dad was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend whose absence will be felt profoundly by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.