Thomas W. Cripe

Mr. Thomas Walter “Tom” Cripe, 83, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at 11:00 pm at the Woodland Manor Nursing Facility in Elkhart following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

He was born in South Bend on Nov. 28, 1935 to the late Clifton and Dorothy (Smith) Cripe and later married Stephanie L. Truex in 1970 in Elkhart. She survives at home after nearly 50 years together.

Also surviving is son Jason (Brandi Deiber) Cripe, grands Savannah Tapia and Lauren and Cameron Cripe; great grandson Anthony “Jay” Tapia, and brother Donald (Joan) Gindelberger. He also leaves behind his faithful German Shepherd Kaija and his beloved kitties Daisy and Asher.  Tom’s step-father, Wayne Gindelberger, sister Beverly Cripe and brothers Clifton Cripe, Jr. and Ed Gindelberger all preceed him in death.

In accordance with his wishes, Tom is to be cremated. A memorial service will take place at Elkhart DAV #19, 1205 Middleton Run Road on Friday, July 12, 2019 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart have been assisting the family with arrangements.

Tom owned and operated Specialty Window Coverings along with his friend and business partner, Tom Hines, for over 20 years. He was a member of Elkhart Elks #425 and loved to golf and travel in his motorhome. He also served as a staff sergeant in the US Air Force during the Korean War.

Memorial donations may be given to the American Alzheimer’s Association or to the Humane Society of Elkhart County. Condolences can reach the family at the funeral home’s website.

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