Gary Wayne Trippie

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gary Wayne Trippie on March 25, 2026, at the age of 76. Gary passed away peacefully at home after a long illness, with his beloved wife of 53 years, Jeanie, by his side as he transitioned to eternal life. Gary and Jeanie shared a devoted marriage and the unique blessing of working side by side throughout their entire careers.

Gary was born in Houston, Texas, on March 12, 1950, to Angelo and Ethel Trippie. He attended St. Rose of Lima Catholic School and graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1968 before continuing his education at Lamar University in Beaumont.

On September 10, 1972, Gary married Jeanie Colletti. He was a devoted husband, and their marriage was a true example of love and commitment. They respected and cared deeply for one another, shared a strong faith, and truly enjoyed life together. Over the years, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, dancing, and travel throughout the United States and abroad. Among their most treasured memories were three special trips to Italy.

Gary began his career in the grocery industry at a young age, working part-time for J. Weingarten, Inc. In 1971, he joined Service Brokerage Company, a local food broker, where he started at the ground level and rose through the ranks to become President at the age of 40. As the industry evolved, the company merged with San Antonio–based Luke Soules in 1997 and later became part of Acosta Sales & Marketing in 2001. Gary continued to lead operations in both Houston and Dallas with dedication and integrity.

In 2007, Gary retired early, looking forward to spending his days on the golf course. He loved the game and proudly celebrated a hole-in-one at Gleannloch Golf Club. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Gary also found great joy in supporting his nieces and nephews, often attending their games and cheering them on.

Gary was a man of few words, but his quiet strength, kindness, and loving heart spoke volumes to all who knew him.

He is survived by his brothers, Richard Trippie and his wife, Melinda, and Paul Trippie; and his sisters, Angie Trippie and her husband, Larry Campbell, and Cindy Rice and her husband, Pete. He is also survived by his brother, Sam Trippie, and his sister, Patsy Oun. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Elizabeth and Charlie Salvaggio, Tina and Stephen Castille, Virginia and Tony Quartaro, Julie Colletti, and the late Cynthia and Emmanuel Vetrano. He will be deeply missed by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, god children, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers, Maria Saldana and Jorge Aviles, for their compassionate care, kindness, friendship, and unwavering support over the past six years. Their presence brought comfort, dignity, and peace to Gary, Jeanie, and the entire family during a difficult time.

Visitation and Vigil services will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home. A private visitation for immediate family will take place from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by public visitation from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Vigil service will begin at 7:00 p.m., led by Deacon Scott of St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church. A funeral cortege will follow to Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery for a graveside service at approximately 1:00 p.m. A reception luncheon will follow the interment at Forest Park Westheimer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church, 7810 Cypresswood Drive, Spring, Texas 77379.

Pallbearers will be Pat Whipple, Walter Wilson, Jorge Aviles, E.J. Vetrano, Peter Grisaffe, Pierce Grisaffe, Tyler Rice, and Charlie Salvaggio Jr., with Dan Yokubaitis serving as honorary pallbearer.