Gerald Elmer “Jerry” Tripp
July 18th, 1936 - February 13th, 2025
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Jerry's Obituary
Gerald was born July 18, 1936 in Robinson Township, MI. He died on February 13, 2025 in Galien, MI at home surrounded by his wife and family. Gerald was born to Clarence and Anna (Purdy) Tripp. Having been a child through WWII, Gerald felt his call to duty and joined the Navy. He enlisted in the US Navy in August 1954 as a Seaman Recruit. Served on The USS Sierra AD 18 and on The USS Shenandoah AD 26. Mustered out in 1958 while obtaining the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class. He was discharged in 1962.
Gerald then spent his life serving the Lord, his family, and continued service to the United States military by serving as chaplain of the Grand Haven VFW for many years. He had many different interests and jobs including sales, foundry work, an accomplished auctioneer, and an impactful career as a teacher in Grand Rapids. Gerald had a passion for learning and he never stopped as after his retirement, he pursued and obtained his Doctorate in Theology. After his love for the Lord and his family, Gerald’s main interest was genealogy and the love for learning about his family history. Gerald was also an award winning wood carver. He truly dedicated his life giving to others, from his work in ministry and for Hospice, to his ability to brighten any room.
Gerald married the love of his life, Victoria Ann Novakowski on January 30, 1961 in Robinson Township. They spent 65 years at each other’s sides, holding together through the hard times, and smiling through the joys. They had eight children, Faith (Brian) Falkowski, Jesse (Sarah) Sutherland, Richard (Daneen) Tripp, Hope (Murray) Swiftney, Jeffrey Tripp, Thomas (Elizabeth) Tripp, Charity (Andrew) May, Nathaniel (Kylie) Tripp. Gerald had 27 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Richard and Roy, and his grandson Caleb Tripp. He is survived by his wife, eight children, sister Judy Scott, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A memorial service is being planned at the Grand Haven VFW and a date will be announced soon.
Psalm 73:26 “My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.”
Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com.
Gerald then spent his life serving the Lord, his family, and continued service to the United States military by serving as chaplain of the Grand Haven VFW for many years. He had many different interests and jobs including sales, foundry work, an accomplished auctioneer, and an impactful career as a teacher in Grand Rapids. Gerald had a passion for learning and he never stopped as after his retirement, he pursued and obtained his Doctorate in Theology. After his love for the Lord and his family, Gerald’s main interest was genealogy and the love for learning about his family history. Gerald was also an award winning wood carver. He truly dedicated his life giving to others, from his work in ministry and for Hospice, to his ability to brighten any room.
Gerald married the love of his life, Victoria Ann Novakowski on January 30, 1961 in Robinson Township. They spent 65 years at each other’s sides, holding together through the hard times, and smiling through the joys. They had eight children, Faith (Brian) Falkowski, Jesse (Sarah) Sutherland, Richard (Daneen) Tripp, Hope (Murray) Swiftney, Jeffrey Tripp, Thomas (Elizabeth) Tripp, Charity (Andrew) May, Nathaniel (Kylie) Tripp. Gerald had 27 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Richard and Roy, and his grandson Caleb Tripp. He is survived by his wife, eight children, sister Judy Scott, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A memorial service is being planned at the Grand Haven VFW and a date will be announced soon.
Psalm 73:26 “My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.”
Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com.
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