Rochester, New York and Orland, Maine.
David Joseph Ripton, 67, left this sphere December 31, 2023, in Webster, NY, surrounded by love, light, family and friends for whom he forever will remain in their hearts.
David joins his parents, John and Irene Ripton, and his brother/friend, Michael Ripton, who predeceased him. He is survived by his proud children, Shane Fisher, Laurie (Jonathan) Billett and Jakob Berleant Ripton; loving siblings Patricia Isham, Pamela (Billy) Cook, Robert Ripton and Michele Zoutte (Tom Embry); half-brothers John, Philip and Thomas (deceased) Ripton; cherished Aunt Diane Ripton; grandchildren and beams of sunshine Liam and Cecilia; adoring nieces and nephews Wyatt Ripton, Carly Ripton, Hannah Isham, Shelby Michener, Ross Zoutte and Kendall Zoutte; and supports Cathy Ripton, Anne Berleant, Marie Arnberg, Anne Chirico, Carol and Scott Hall.
A painter of houses and canvases, poet and musician, David leaves behind close friends and colleagues from New York to Maine and beyond.
Keeping to his wishes, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please hold the door open for a stranger.
David was kind and affable, intelligent and creative. Laughter burst from him, as if humor built up in his soul and was suddenly released. I remember how he loved the guitar, how he wrote gritty songs and poetry. He gave me a CD of his songs one time. I loved his compositions, his rough voice, his tenderness. I wish I still had that CD – his first – but, unfortunately, after I played it for colleagues and students, I left it in an office at school and never saw it again. Everyone loved the songs, especially the younger listeners, and I hope it found an appreciative home. I have always loved and respected David. I extend my deepest sympathy to Pam, Patti, Rob and Michelle and the entire family that radiates outward from the four of you. No one will ever replace your brother, my brother, but he lives in the memories of those who speak his name and smile in quiet contemplation of his spirit. “All we need is love.”