FORT WAYNE – Richard Dean Cripe, 70, passed away March 20, 2014, in Fort Wayne. He was born April 12, 1943, in Columbia City, to Earnie and Gladys Cripe. On June 14, 1969, he married Lois “Jeanie” Cripe, who survives in Fort Wayne. He served as a member of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, and he was a member of the American Legion Post 243, Ligonier. He worked, along with his wife, as owners of Walker’s Restaurant, Wolf Lake, for 26 years. Prior to the restaurant, he worked with Swim Pools Inc., Fort Wayne. Also surviving are a son, Greg (and spouse Angie) Cripe, Churubusco; two stepgrandchildren, Lexy and Natalie; and a brother, Terry (and spouse Sally) Cripe, North Webster. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Connie Smith; and two brothers, Jack and Earnie Jr. Services were at 10:30 a.m. today at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. DuPont Road, Fort Wayne. ***** Memorials to CTN Transportation or the Disabled Veterans Foundation.
