James Dillon Trippel

James Dillon Trippel, 82, lifelong Mishawaka resident, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, Wednesday evening, July 31, 2013, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.

Jim was born February 21, 1931 in Mishawaka, the son of the late Victor and Helen (Dillon) Trippel. He graduated from South Bend Central Catholic High School and earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Marquette University. Jim served his country in the US Army during the Korean War and was a part of the Counter Intelligence Corps.

Jim married Angela Sobrero on June 26, 1954 at St. Bavo Church in Mishawaka. The couple made Mishawaka their home where they raised six children.

Jim worked with his dad as a plumbing and heating contractor in the family business, Vic Trippel Plumbing and Heating, Inc. in Mishawaka. For many years Jim ran the business and until recently was still working there part time.

Jim was a long time member of St. Joseph Catholic Church where he served on the Parish Council and was a Lector. He was a member and Past Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus Council #1878. He did considerable cooking for K of C events.

Jim was a member and Past President of St. Joe Valley PHCC. He has been a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals and the Redevelopment Commission for the City of Mishawaka.

Jim enjoyed golfing, making stained glass items, wood working and was an accomplished guitarist. He was a Chicago Cubs and Bears fan and passed that on to his family.

Jim’s family was the center of his life. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 59 years, Angie; six children, Ron Trippel, Chuck (Kelly) Trippel, Terry (Chris) Trippel, Pat Trippel, Mike (Laura) Trippel and Kathy Makris; thirteen grandchildren, Erin, Tom, Alex, Caroline, Tim, Christopher, Kailey, Courtney, Cameron, Rosa, Evan, Ellen and Michael; and three sisters, Betty Satran, Barbara O’Keefe and Sara Funck.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 am in St. Joseph Catholic Church, 225 S. Mill Street, Mishawaka, with Rev. Terry Fisher officiating and Rev. Barry England assisting. Burial with military honors will follow at Fairview Cemetery.

Friends may spend time with Jim’s family Sunday from 2 - 6 pm in Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka, where the Rosary will be prayed at 5 pm.

The family suggests memorials be given to St. Joseph Church. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.