Kathleen Marie Rippee

Kathleen (Kay) Jahn Rippee, age 103, passed away peacefully on August 29th in San Diego, California. Born on October 28, 1921, Kay lived through more than a century of incredible change with quiet strength, style, a wonderful sense of humor, and endless grace.

A lifelong San Diegan, Kay married William (Bill) Rippee in 1945. Together, they built a life centered around love, family, faith, and community.

Kay is survived by her daughter Lynn and son-in-law Frank Silva, and her daughter-in-law Cindy Rippee. She was known as “Maleen” to her five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, all of whom adored her and felt deeply loved in her presence.

Kay had an enduring love of travel, and her eyes lit up at the thought of a new adventure. Her annual trek to Ashford Castle in Ireland holds legendary memories. She was an avid reader, a horse racing fan, a bridge player and always ready for a challenge or a good conversation. She appreciated the joys in life and never lost her curiosity about the world.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bill, her son Bill, Jr., and her granddaughter Elizabeth, all of whom she held close in her heart.

A private memorial will be held with family to honor her beautiful life.

If you'd like to honor Kay, a simple act of gratitude is the perfect tribute.

She will be deeply missed, and the way she lived her extraordinary life will remain forever in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her.

Slainte Maleen!