Cpl. Aaron J. Ripperda

Cpl. Aaron J. Ripperda, 26, of Marine, IL, died Monday, March 18, 2013, in Hawthorne, NV.

Aaron was born January 8, 1987, to Kent Ripperda and Tina Sutton (Nee Lesicko), at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Breese, IL.

Aaron graduated from Highland High School in 2005.  After 1 year at St. Xavier University, Chicago, IL, he enrolled in and graduated from L’Ecole Culinaire, St. Louis, MO.  He enlisted in the Marines in 2008.

Aaron loved people and loved life.  He was known to be a generous, honorable, trustworthy, and courageous human being who lit up the room with his infectious laughter, endearing smile and adventurous spirit.  Aaron treasured his relationships and would go out of his way to put others first, making them feel welcomed, valued and loved.  In his 26 years, Aaron lived more than most do in a lifetime.  Aaron, beloved son, brother, grandson, step-son and friend will be missed dearly.  Thank you, Aaron, for loving us.  Semper Fidelis.

He is survived by his father, Kent (Colleen) Ripperda, Marine, IL; his mother, Tina (Jeff) Sutton, Santa Rosa, CA; his sister, Kendall (significant other, Charlie Swaim) Ripperda, Santa Rosa, CA; paternal grandmother, Rita Ripperda; maternal grandfather, Ronald (Jackie) Lesicko; special friend, Jessica Iskrzycki; aunts and uncles, Kurt (Lynn) Ripperda, Cara (significant other, John Zerkle) Tomasek, William (Beverly) Lesicko, Patrick (Julie) Lesicko; many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Clarence “Louie” Ripperda; maternal grandmother, Dorothy Lesicko (Nee Williams).

Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warriors or Injured Marine Semper Fi fund.

Visitation: Tuesday, April 2, 2013, from 3:00 to 8:00 pm and Wednesday, April 3, 2013, from 8:00 to 9:00 am at Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL.

Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at 10:00 am at St. Paul Catholic Church, Highland, IL.

Clergy: Rev. Fr. Scott Snider, Parochial Vicar

Interment: St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Carlyle, IL.

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL