Mitchell “Mike” Adam Ripkowski

Mitchell “Mike” Adam Ripkowski, 93, of Dayton, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born Oct. 18, 1931, in New Waverly, Texas, Mike was the son of Stash Ripkowski and Mattie Olbrych. He grew up in Dayton, where he graduated from Dayton High School in 1950. A proud Bronco, Mike was the undefeated senior-year quarterback and a standout fast-pitch softball pitcher.

Following high school, Mike answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. His dedication to service extended beyond his military years as a lifetime member and 40-year active participant in the American Legion Post 512. He was also a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus. Mike and his siblings were recognized as the largest U.S. military family—a distinction he carried with quiet pride.

A lifelong Catholic, Mike was a faithful member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dayton. He loved the simple joys in life—mowing his yard on his John Deere tractor, savoring his wife Margie’s home-cooked meals, and spending time with his grandchildren. He never missed a Houston Astros game and was one of their most devoted fans.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his many siblings: Bernie, Felix, Alex, August, Leon, Raymond, Herman, Catherine, Virginia, Frank, Pearline, Stanley, Bill, and John Ripkowski. His legacy of faith, service, and love continues through those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Margie Ripkowski; sons, Gary Ripkowski and wife Karrie, and Robert Ripkowski and wife Amy; sister, Anna Lee Campbell; and grandchildren, Katelyn Madden and husband John, Ryan Ripkowski, Travis Ripkowski, and Chase Ripkowski.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton, with a rosary service from 6 to 7 p.m. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dayton at 10 a.m. with Father Peter Nguyen officiating. Burial will follow at Magnolia Park Cemetery in Dayton.

Serving as pallbearers will be Steven Ripkowski, Randy Ripkowski, Doug Schlemmer, Stephen Wehring, David Ripkowski, Kenny Campbell, Josh Townsend, and Bubba Richter. Honorary pallbearers are John Ripkowski and members of American Legion Post 512.

Mike’s legacy of patriotism, faith, and family will live on in all who knew and loved him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:21