Carl Tripp

Carl Jerome Tripp, 78, of Jackson died Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, at his home.

Carl Tripp

Carl Tripp

He was born July 10, 1945, in Bremerton, Washington, to U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. "Jug" and Helen Swanson Tripp.

Carl earned degrees in finance, psychology and computer science, which led to him being a pioneer in the computer industry and a lengthy, distinguished career with IBM.

He served in the U.S. Air Force as an air policeman, being sent to Vietnam in 1967. He received many medals and ribbons, including the USAF Commendation, "Combat Master" scroll and Presidential Unit Citation ribbon, among others.

He married Mary "Suzie" Pruitt, the love of his life, and eventually moved to his "last" home in Fruitland.

Survivors include daughters, Traci (Jonas) Graham and Julia (Ron) Rossiter; brother, Clifford Tripp; grandchildren, Bri Bruce and Jake and Gavin Graham; niece, Brandie (Glen) Cummins; and friend, Max Wilson.

Carl was preceded in death by Suzie, as well as his parents and sister, Sharon Hecht.

Funeral, followed by full military honors, will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau, with the Rev. Donny Ford officiating.

Memorial contributions may be given to VFW Post No. 3838, 1049 N. Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; American Legion Post No. 158, 319 N. High St., Jackson, MO 63755 or Disabled American Veterans Chapter No. 16, P.O. Box 458, Cape Girardeau, MO 63702.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.