Alvin Cripe

Alvin W. Cripe, 93, died Monday, Aug. 26, 2024, at Waterford Crossing Health Campus.

He was born Dec. 12, 1930, in Goshen to Glen and Sarah Elsie (Long) Cripe.

Mr. Cripe served in the United States Air Force from 1950-54 during the Korean War.

After his honorable discharge, he married Mary E. Hartsough on July 8, 1956, in Goshen.

She survives, along with three children, Jeffrey Cripe, New Paris, Brian (Cowizetta) Cripe, Syracuse, and Carol (Gene) Pfefferle, Milford; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Grace Cripe, Tennessee.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Carolyn Bennett and Mary “Faith” Hill.

Mr. Cripe received his bachelor’s degree in education from Manchester College in 1956 and master’s degree from Western Michigan University.

He was a longtime teacher and principal for Goshen Community Schools, teaching at Jefferson Elementary and Towncrest Junior High School. He served as principal at Rensberger, Waterford (24 years), Whitman Junior High, Towncrest Middle School and West Goshen Elementary.

Mr. Cripe was a member of Christian Church of Milford, New Paris Lion’s Club, National Elementary Principals Association and Indiana Elementary Principals Association.

Alvin enjoyed music, singing with “Men of Music” under Walt Stutsman, photography, camping, traveling, fishing and hunting.

He and Mary enjoyed many winters at their home in Lakeland, Fla.

Visitation will be Friday, Sept. 6, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, 1911 S. Main St., Goshen, beginning at 10 a.m. prior to the 11 a.m. memorial service. Minister Steve Wilson will officiate.

Burial will follow at West Goshen Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be directed to World Missionary Press, New Paris, and Christian Church of Milford.