Dolores L Ripper

Dolores L. Ripper, 86, passed away on the morning of May 1, 2017 at Hospice of Treasure Coast in Stuart. She was pre-deceased by her parents Antonio E. and Herminia Garcia of Texas, and brother Tony Garcia, of Miami. She is survived by her adult children, their spouses and children: Charles and Karen Ripper and son Wyatt; Sandra and BJ Brown and their children Aaron and Adrienne Justi and son Will; Steve and Donna Ripper and their children Gina, Ryan, Zachary and Kyle; Anita and Scott Mosiman and daughter Jennifer Timmerman. She is also survived by younger brother Eduardo Garcia and wife Nina, sisters Ana Davis and Rosa Garcia; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews and eight great-grandchildren.

Dolores was a long-time resident of Martin County, well known to many in the area since her arrival over 45 years ago. After years in the food service business, she returned to school at the age of 60 to earn her Master of Social Work Degree, becoming an integral member of the Tykes and Teens team of therapists providing counseling to thousands of children and family members in crisis. While most her age were retiring, she continued her work in the field of counseling and psychodrama therapy, earning a nomination for the prestigious Sage Award just one week before her hospitalization. Well-loved by the clients she served – many of whom have literally grown up with her and live happier, healthier lives because of her dedication – Dolores will be remembered as a dynamic powerhouse who fought to improve the lives of others. She will be greatly missed by her family, colleagues, clients, and staff at St. Mary’s Medical Center who gave her their love and care in her last weeks of life.