Former Ripley businessman, Frank Zipfel, dies at the age of 95

Frank Josef Zipfel, formerly of Ripley, died peacefully, at the Kincardine Hospital, Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, at the age of 95.

Predeceased by Rita, his loving wife of 61 years.

Born July 26, 1930, in Perna, Czechoslovakia, Frank was the son of the late Gottfried and Melanie Leder.

Greatly missed by his three daughters, Priscilla (Blain) Carruthers, Debbie (Art) Stanley, and Shanda (Mike) Hewitson; grandchildren, Jaime Lee (Brent), Chelsea, Melanie (Jordan), Meghan, Cass (Shannon) and Joshua; and great-grandson, Theo.

Also survived by his brother, Gottfried (Annie) Leder; and several nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his son-in-law, Blain; sister, Erna; father, Josef Zipfel; and dear family friend, Donalda MacKinnon.

Frank came to Canada as a young man in 1953, seeking new opportunities in a strange land. With little English and $10 in his pocket, he was able to invite Rita to join him from Germany by 1957.

They made a home in the Ripley community, operating Frank's Garage. Their home was always open to family and friends. His daughters remember the sounds of laughter coming from the dining room where Rita often accused Frank of cheating at cards.

After raising their three daughters, they sold their garage and built a new home in Southampton. Frank enjoyed many trips to visit family in Germany, Austria, Arkansas, Manitoba and of course, Ripley.

Frank was a huge supporter and cheerleader of his grandchildren and took pride in their many accomplishments.

He will be remembered for his enthusiastic love of woodworking, painting, playing cards, collecting coins and cooking for his family. His determination, wit, generosity and strong work ethic will be forever emulated by his family. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Visitation will be held Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, from 1-2 p.m., at the MacKenzie and McCreath Funeral Home, Ripley, followed by a private family service.

Interment, Ripley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Rosewood RVilla Residents Fund would be greatly appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

Donations and condolences at www.mackenzieandmccreath.com.