Donald E. Tripe

A Mass of Christian Burial for Donald E. Tripe will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Orleans, Nebraska, with Father James Divis as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Orleans.

Donald Edward Tripe, 87 years of age, of Alma, Nebraska, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at his home. Don was born in Orleans, Nebraska on June 21, 1939, the second of three children born to Edward Joseph and Dorothy Elizabeth (Becker) Tripe. He attended primary school at Orleans and graduated from Orleans High School with the class of 1957.

On June 25, 1960, Don was united in marriage to Shirley Christensen at St. Mary's Catholic Church. This union was blessed with two children: Jodi and Brad. Don continued the legacy of Tripe Motor Company as a Dealer Principal.

Don enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, selling cars, and spending time in Arizona during the winters. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and following all their activities.

He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Rotary, and the Jaycees.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Shirley Tripe; his brother, Robert "Bob" Tripe and wife, Lana; one sister-in-law, Larene Bantam; two brothers-in-law, Gary Christensen; Kenneth Bantam; and two sons-in-law: Stephen Meinecke; and Thomas Gaburo.

Don is survived by his children: Jodi Gaburo of Alma; and Brad Tripe and wife, Janna of Alma; three granddaughters: Brianne Romeo and her husband, Justin of Oxford; Brook Siebels and husband, Troy of Oxford; and Stephanie Meinecke of Turlock, California; nine great-grandchildren: Rylan, Colson, Kimberli, Nicklin, Taryn, Sydney, Harper, Teagan, and Bailey; one sister, Mary Janice White and her husband, Lester of Orleans; two sisters-in-law: Margie Lange and her husband, Don of Ferndale, Washington; and Karon Christensen of Alma; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the family present.  A rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. at the church.

A memorial has been established in Don's honor, and kindly suggested to the family for later designation.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

The Bauer-Torrey & Mach Funeral Home in Alma is in charge of the arrangements.