William Earl Cripe passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026. He was most recently a resident of Sartell MN. Also having lived in Eau Claire, Arkansaw and Plum City WI through the years.

He was born on June 12, 1944 in Eau Claire WI, to Merrill and Evelyn (Crust) Cripe. He was the youngest of 6 children. He married Patricia Caturia on November 20, 1965 . They had 4 children and later divorced.

Bill wore many hats during his life. He served in the Army National Guard from October 1962 to January 1964, at which time he entered the Air Force until he was honorably discharged on May 10th, 1965. During his time in service, he earned a Sharpshooter Badge and Rifle Bar. Following his military duty, he worked in construction, ran a dairy farm, was a bartender and finally retired from his last career as a long distance semi driver.

There were many things that piqued his interest, but his latest favorite pastimes were coin collecting, playing cards, bingo and mahjong and in the last few years he enjoyed making beautiful pictures with Diamond Dotz. He was also a super fan of Star Trek and classic country music.

Most of all he enjoyed having his family around him. He loved being a Grandpa and Uncle.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Merrill and Evelyn and stepfather Mason Anderson, brothers Gordon, David, Don and Kenny. Sisters-in-law Doris (David) and Sharon (Kenny). Son, Anthony “Tony” Cripe and Granddaughter Brittany Heath. Nephews Chris Edwards and Patrick Cripe.

He is survived by children Rebecca (Gene) Heath of Perry, Florida, Jessica (Jason) Eccles of New Richmond, WI and Jason Cripe of Menomonie WI. Grandchildren Jordan and Adam Heath, TJ (Annita), Justin and Dalton Cripe, Lilly and Owen Eccles. Great grandchildren Willow, Greg, Beau, Dexter and Naddie Cripe, Sister Carol (Jim) Edwards of Sartell MN, Sister-in-law Beth (Gordon) Cripe of Chippewa Falls WI, and numerous nieces and nephews.