obituary

ELDRIDGE EARL KIPFER

March 14, 1921—December 18, 2010

Eldridge Kipfer, age 89, passed away on December 18, 2010, at the Pocahontas Community Hospital.

Eldridge Earl Kipfer was born on March 14, 1921, near Rolfe. He was the son of Noah and Bertha (Birky) Kipfer. Eldridge was educated in area country school and graduated from Rolfe High School in 1938. After he completed his education, he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Northern Pacific. After his discharge, he returned to the Rolfe area. On June 6, 1948, Eldridge married Bonnie Philp at the United Methodist Church in Rolfe. The couple farmed near Rolfe, and Bonnie worked along side Eldridge in the operation of the farm. They lived on the farm until 1986, when they moved into Rolfe. Eldridge retired from farming in 1992. Bonnie passed away on January 11, of this year.

Eldridge was a member of United Methodist Church, now the Shared Ministry. He was also a member of the VFW and American Legion, having served as a past commander. He enjoyed tinkering, fishing, and was an all around mechanic. Eldridge was a wise man with a good sense of humor and a great faith.

Survivors include his sons: Paul of Gilmore City and Todd (Terri) of Rolfe sisters, Lorene Hansen of Emmetsburg and Fern Funk of Graettinger, and brother Ervin (Arlys) Kipfer of Eatonville, WA and many nieces, nephews and friends. Paul graduated from RHS in 1971, and Todd graduated from RHS in 1973.

Eldridge was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Bonnie and sister, Evelyn Hansen.