Richard "Rich" Allen Ripley

Richard “Rich” Ripley, known by friends and family as “Ripper” of Tempe, Arizona, passed away November 3, 2025, after a brave fight with Stage 4 Bladder Cancer. Rich was 69.

Rich was born in Minnesota to Lois Colbiornsen Ripley and the late Robert Elliott Ripley. He grew up alongside his brother Robert and sister Erika. The family moved to Tempe, Arizona, in the fall of 1967. Rich graduated from McClintock High School, Class of 1974, before earning his degree from Arizona State University in 1979.

A proud McClintock High School Charger, Arizona State University Sun Devil, and lifelong Tempe resident, Rich devoted his career to athletics and event production. He spent decades creating experiences that brought people together, most notably through his work with the Fiesta Bowl, where he managed the Tempe New Year’s Eve Block Party and produced the inaugural “College Football’s Biggest Party in 2007,” among many other major events.

A staple of the Tempe community, Rich poured his heart into connecting others. Rich founded the McClintock Alumni page, he orchestrated the school’s 50th anniversary (2014), and he organized his 50th high school reunion (2024). After a 30-year hiatus, Rich brought back the McClintock Athletic Hall of Fame. Rich took great pride in gathering the McClintock Chargers together. 

Rich always put others before himself. He believed deeply in giving back to the community and lived a life centered on kindness, connection, and service. Family was at the heart of everything he did, he made sure Rachel and Erik had every opportunity to succeed, never missing a single practice, game, or performance. Rich valued people and experiences over possessions, finding meaning in the simple joys of life. Some of his happiest moments were spent with his wife, Melissa, cheering on the Sun Devils at ASU football games and taking the light rail together, a tradition they both cherished.

Rich is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Melissa, and their two children, Rachel and Erik. He also leaves behind his mother, Lois Ripley, brother Robert, and sister Erika, along with extended family, countless friends, colleagues, and members of the Tempe community whose lives he touched. His legacy of generosity, connection, and community spirit will continue to live on through the many people who were fortunate to know him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a future date where all can come together to honor the memory of Rich and the lasting impact he made on the Tempe community.