Published in and with permission of the Fresno Bee on Jan. 8, 2014

Alex Trippel was born on December 27, 1921 in Lincoln, Nebraska to John and Mary (Andreas) Trippel, German immigrants from Wareneurg, Russia. At the age of 92, Alex passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2014 after a brief illiness.

Moving at the age of 10 to Fresno, Alex settled with his family in German town. After graduating from Edison High School, Alex joined the United States Navy during World War II serving in the South Pacific, including Hawaii and Guam, as a member of the Seabee's. Alex was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1945. Upon returning to Fresno, Alex became a salesman of diesel truck parts working for J.T. Jenkins, Valley Kenworth, amd MidCal Ford. Spanning a career of 40 years, Alex became well known throughout the valley as successful, personable, and dedicated.

After his retirement, Alex worked as a gatekeeper at the Fresno Fairgrounds; a job in which he made numerous friends. As a man of strong faith, Alex served as an active member and deacon of the Cross Church. One of Alex's favorite activities was the preparation and selling of beerocks at the church for their annual fundraiser. After meeting Alice Arioto at the Rainbow Ballroom, They married in April 1952 and were married for 55 years. Born to them in 1953, was their son Lance Trippel and in 1958 their second son Darren Trippel. Alex is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Alice; his brothers, Henry and Herman Trippel; and his sisters, Marie Trippel, Flora Loeffel, and Esther Hinchcliff. He is survived by his son, Lance Trippel and his wife Danette; son, Darren Trippel; sister, Irene Weslowski and numerous nieces and nephews. Alex leaves behind many cherished memories with family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Stephens & Bean Chapel, on Thursday, January 9, 2014, from 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at Stephens & Bean Chapel on Friday, January 10, 2014 at 10:00 a.m., with interment to follow at St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery.

Stephens & Bean Chapel, Fresno, California