Obituary of John R. Ripley

John R. Ripley, 64, passed away suddenly at his home, March 4, 2016, following a brief illness. He was born in Schenectady to the late Nelson and Catherine Fitzpatrick Ripley. John was a 1970 BH-BL graduate. He later graduated from Albany College of Pharmacy where he then held the position of Pharmacy Benefit Administrator for MVP in Schenectady. He was united in marriage to Susan M. Czub on May 21, 1977. Together they created a beautiful home full of personal touches. He was an avid outdoorsman. He took great pride in his lawn and gardens, both of which he was very particular about. John participated in a number of 5K races over the years and was a skilled hiker. He favored the Adirondacks, particularly Hopkins Mountain and Haystack Mountain. He finished hiking all 46 high peaks, some multiple times in 2011, making him an official Adirondack "46-er" #7203. John had a passion for gardening, concerts, music (the band "Phish"), the Boston Red Sox and spending time cooking and laughing with his adoring family. Mr. Ripley was actively involved in the Harmony Community Center in Charlton where he had resided since 1986. Survivors include his wife Susan Ripley, daughters Corinna "Cori" Schinnerer and her husband Kevin, of Ballston Lake, Amanda Reynolds and her husband Matt, of Nashua, NH, and Rebecca Dietl of Irondequoit, NY. John was a proud grandfather of Dylan and Logan Schinnerer and baby girl Reynolds expected in July. He leaves behind his brother, Thomas Ripley and his wife Ema, of Napa, CA; his sisters, Patricia Bloss (husband Michael) of Clifton Park and Mary Harris (husband Cliff) of Westfield, NJ; several very special nieces and nephews also survive. John also leaves behind a multitude of cherished friends who will remember his quick wit and unique sense of humor. Relatives and friends may call on the family Tuesday, March 8th from 4-8pm in the GLENVILLE FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL at 9 Glenridge Rd. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11 am from Glenville with Pastor William Delia officiating. Interment will be conducted privately at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions to honor John may be made by making a gift to the Appalachian Mountain Club, at www.outdoors.org.