Clyde H. Ripka

Clyde H. Ripka, 89, of Bellefonte, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Mount Nittany Medical Center. Born on Feb. 15, 1937, in Bellefonte, he was the son of the late Robert Ripka and Jean Packer Ripka Bickle. He married his beloved wife, Judy Ann (Bloom) Ripka, who survives at home.

Clyde was a 1955 graduate of State College Area High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from June 1955 until he was honorably discharged in May 1963. Upon returning home, he worked as a Corrections Officer at Rockview for 32 years until his retirement in 1999.

In addition to his wife, Judy, he is survived by their two children, Michael Ripka (Kim), of Bellefonte, and Jennifer Coslo (Jim), of Bellefonte, and he was most proud of being Pap to his grandchildren, Olivia Walk, Nathan Ripka, Aaron Coslo and Emily Coslo. He loved and was very proud of them. Also surviving is a brother, Edward Bickle, and sisters, Dollie Hochberg, Lucille Shuey, Jeanie Ghaner and Connie Gearhart.

Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Gladys Meyer, Virginia Struble, James Ripka, Sr. and Leroy Bickle.

Clyde was a member of Faith United Methodist Church in Bellefonte.

Funeral and burial services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.wetzlerfuneralhome.com.