Anita Ripple (Hall) Hightshoe
September 22, 1944 - June 28, 2023
Anita Ripple (Hall) Hightshoe, age 78, went home to her maker on June 28, 2023, after a short and valiant battle with a respiratory illness. She was born in Brazil, Indiana to Carl and Wilma Ripple, in 1944.
Anita is survived by her two children, daughter Terra and husband Adam, son David and wife Deborah, two grandchildren, Samantha and Cody, and a great grandchild who is on the way. Her brother Max, his wife Karen, and numerous cousins were also dear to her heart. The "Girl Cousins" were especially important to her and the many travels and reminiscing and love they provided.
Anita was married three times, husbands Bill (died in 2020) and Terry (died in 1978) preceding her in death. Her first husband, David, still resides in California.
After graduating from Staunton High School in 1962, Anita worked for IBM in Greencastle, and to the end maintained a special place in her heart for those early years and her coworkers there. Later, she earned a degree in Nursing at Indiana State University and worked in the nursing profession as a director of nursing at several local facilities around Clay and Vigo counties, and later as a home health nurse.
Always a giving person, both professionally and personally, Anita was an officer at the Clay County Humane Shelter, a volunteer for local charities, an organist at Staunton Christian church, and a philanthropist to worthy causes.
Far from demure, she embraced life to its fullest. Anita toured the countryside on her Harley motorcycle, was a competitive skeet shooter, earned a belt in martial arts, operated a front-loader at her father’s coal yard, and drove a school bus for many years.
Still, no one hugged their children any tighter. She gave her love unconditionally to family and friends, was a steadfast ally when needed, and believed strongly in self-reliance. She navigated life with a balance of grace and determination while bringing joy to the hearts of those around her.
Truly, the world lost a magnificent, gifted woman at her passing, and she will be so desperately missed. Anita had a team of friends who came along beside her on her journey and helped her continue to be happy in her A-frame, including John and Cindy, Jan and Mike, Alba, Teresa and Tina.
Never comfortable with attention, Anita asked to be buried without pomp or ceremony. A small, private graveside service will be held, followed by a celebration of life later in July. Family and friends will be notified of these arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that well-wishers make a donation to the Clay County Humane Society in Anita’s name.
Please leave your thoughts and memories for "Nita Jane" at Frenchfuneralhome.com
