Dan Richard Ripley, 56, of Trinity, Texas, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026, after a brave and unwavering six-month battle with metastatic melanoma. He was born on January 20, 1970, in Brookings, South Dakota.

To have known Dan was to love him. He was a kind soul with an exceptionally generous heart, someone who couldn’t say “no” to anyone in need. He gave freely and wholeheartedly, never expecting anything in return. Dan was truly one of the smartest and funniest people most would ever meet. He brought humor to every day and somehow knew exactly how to place it gently into life’s toughest moments. His presence made hard days lighter, ordinary days brighter, and he left everyone wishing for just a little more time with his wit, his warmth, and his unmistakable charm.

Dan is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Lynn Ripley of Trinity, TX, who stood by his side with endless love and devotion. He was a devoted father to his children: Morgan (Richard) Smith of Pearland, TX, Zachary Ripley of Conroe, TX, and Jordan Ripley of Pearland, TX. His greatest joys in recent years were his two grandchildren, Tatum (aka Pickles) and Taven (aka Banana) Smith of Pearland, TX, who brought him immeasurable pride and happiness.

Dan is also survived by his parents, Roger and Gail Ripley of Briggsville, WI, who shaped him into the thoughtful and caring man he became. Dan leaves behind his siblings, who each shared a unique and cherished bond with him: Dale (Katie) Ripley of New Glarus, WI, Dean Ripley of Rochester, MN, Julie Klitzke of Briggsville, WI, Aimee (Michael) Comte of Lyndon Station, WI, Cindy Foster of Shelbyville, KY, and Joe Burton of Sellersburg, IN. Dan also leaves behind his cherished in laws, a whole crew of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends who absolutely adore him.

Dan was wonderfully fun and unique, with a wide range of hobbies that reflected his curious mind and quirky personality. He had a special love for cars starting with his first one – the unmistakable orange Mustang – and took pride in every detail (including the 5.0 liter emblem he glued to it). He enjoyed learning new things and tackling DIY projects alongside Lynn, always eager to help, learn, and make things better with his hands and his humor. Dan began his professional life writing computer programs and later built a rewarding career as a Service Delivery Lead at Accenture, a role where his sharp problem solving and steady leadership truly shined. He also fulfilled a dream of living on the lake and owning a boat, finding peace and joy in the water and the simple moments it offered.

Dan will be remembered for his humor, his unwavering work ethic, his love of family, and the way he lifted the spirits of others simply by being himself. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to bring comfort, laughter, and love to all who know him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he cherished most.

We look forward to remembering and honoring Dan at a Celebration of Life in April 2026. Details regarding the location, date, and time will be shared in the coming days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Dan to Candlelighters Houston or His Grace Foundation. Each of these amazing organizations support childhood cancer children and families in the Houston area.