Frank Martin Rippley, age 72, peacefully passed away on March, 2026.

Funeral services will be held at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, on Friday April 10th, at 2:30 p.m. 

Burial will occur at a later date at the Sterling Cemetery.

Frank was born on May 21, 1953, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Norman Rippley and Elizabeth (Fetzer) Rippley. He was raised in Sterling and graduated from Bismarck High School in 1971. He later attended Bismarck State College. From 1974 to 1976, Frank proudly served in the United States Army.

In 1977, he married Sally Ohlhauser, and together they built a life and family in Sterling North Dakota. Throughout his life, Frank was known as a hardworking and steady presence. From 1988 to 1998, he owned and operated Rip’s Bar in Sterling, North Dakota, where he built lasting friendships and became a familiar face in the community. After selling the bar, he worked for many years at Farmers Union in Sterling.

Frank found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and hunting, and he had a special place in his heart for feeding and caring for the local stray cats. He loved listening to music and spending quiet time outdoors. Those who knew Frank will remember him as calm, kind, easygoing, and hardworking.

Frank’s life was simple, steady, and rooted in family. He leaves behind people who love him deeply and will carry his quiet strength with them always.

He is survived by his children, Jeremy Rippley (Sylvia Dubrey) of Bismarck ND, and Sarah Rippley (Teric Amen) of Lincoln ND. He is also survived by his grandchildren Haley, Meadow, Elijah, and Tyler; and great-grandchildren Jataveon, Jazendaiya, and Luka. He is further survived by his brother, Robert Rippley of Sterling, North Dakota.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Elizabeth Rippley, and five of his siblings.