Leo Ray Cripps, 94, of Gladwin, Michigan passed away at The Villa at Rose City in Rose City, Michigan on Thursday, August 4, 2016. He was born in Gladwin on March 27, 1922 the son of George Edgar & Rebecca (Soldan) Cripps. On June 15, 1946 he was united in marriage to his only true love, Rhoda Richmond in Ubly, Michigan. He absolutely adored her and they celebrated 70 wonderful years together. He was a veteran of the United States Army, proudly serving his country during World War II. He was Purple Heart recipient, and he was also awarded a Bronze Star with Clusters after being wounded at the Battle of the Bulge. He was a lifetime resident of Gladwin County, owner/operator of his own store, along with his father, called “Georges Place” in Hockaday, and he retired from Dow Chemical in Midland, Michigan. He was a fast pitch softball pitcher, enjoyed fishing, hunting, and he had a talent for woodworking. He was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans and also a very active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, teaching Sunday school for 70 years. His memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife: Rhoda Cripps of Gladwin; sons: Val Cripps of South Carolina; Marv (Kathy) Cripps of California; Denny Cripps of Garden City; daughter: Becky Cripps of Gladwin. His children blessed him with 10 beautiful grandchildren and 12 wonderful great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and 3 brothers & sisters. Funeral Services will be conducted by Pastor Joe Dorais and Pastor Bob Brown on Monday, August 8, 2016, 11:00 A.M., with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Gladwin, Michigan. The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 7, 2016 from 2-4:00 P.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin, Michigan. He will be laid to rest with full Military Honors at Butman Twp. Cemetery, Gladwin, Michigan. Those wishing to send an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers are asked to consider the American Cancer Society, Emmanuel Baptist Church or the family. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com
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