Joseph F. Rippe

Joseph F. Rippe, beloved husband of the late Elaine B. Rippe (Houillion) passed away peacefully at the age of 97. He was the loving father of Mark, Bruce (Mary Ellen), and the late Joseph L. Sr. and Melissa. He was also a devoted grandfather to Joseph L. Rippe, Jr. (Kimberly), Brent (Kate), Kate (Rick), Nick (Perry), Kyle, Alex, Jean Ann (Will), Margaret (Sam), Samuel (Claire) and great grandfather to Austin, Addyson, Aidan, Grayson, Ellewyn, Taylor, Josephine, Piper, and Ricky and, of course, his beloved Impy. Joseph is survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his sisters Margaret (Kelly), Dorothy (Vice), and Kathleen (Compton).

Born in Cincinnati, the son of Joseph A. and Katherine M. (nee Robinson). Grew up in Norwood, Ohio, graduating from Norwood High School. At the age of 8, he began selling milk to help support his family. He dropped out of high school to join the Navy Seabee’s during World War II. Upon completing his service, he finished high school, attended the University of Cincinnati at night while starting his career in real estate with his wife Elaine.

In 1950, he opened Rippe Realty followed by Modern Real Estate Sales. After 15 highly successful years in business, he was elected President of Southern Ohio Bank which marked his over 20-year career in the banking industry retiring as Chairman of Provident Bank (both now PNC). During his banking career, he served on the Boards of the Cleveland Federal Reserve, First Savings & Loan and the Ohio State Banking Board. After his retirement from Provident, he resumed his real estate endeavors, purchasing West Shell Realtors in 1991. Throughout his life, he developed many well-known residential subdivisions and was instrumental in assisting with Warren County’s early growth in the 1980s by securing key funding for utility infrastructure.

Beyond his professional career, Joe served on many corporate and nonprofit boards including as President of the SPCA, the Cincinnati Board of Realtors, and Jewish Hospital. Joe and Elaine were involved in many local charitable fundraising activities hosting events at their farm. 

He was a great storyteller building friendships with people from all walks of life including U.S. Presidents. Always willing to help those in need, Joe never forgot his roots of being a self-made man.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at The Church of Immaculata in Mt. Adams, Friday, July 26, 2024, with visitation beginning at 9:30am and the mass at 10:30am. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Immaculata Stain Glass Building Fund, 30 Guido Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.

Shuttle service will be available from the Rookwood Pottery Building parking lot (1077 Celestial Street) to the church.