Peter John Ripoli

Peter "Pete" John Ripoli, 69, of Summerville, South Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

Born on June 4, 1955, in Englewood, New Jersey, Pete was the son of the late Patricia Gillen Ripoli and Jack Ripoli.

Pete is survived by his loving wife, Margaret "Peg" Ripoli, of Summerville, SC; his brother Paul Ripoli (JoAnn Lavatelli) of Butler, NJ; his niece, Jessica Stender (Kurt) and grandnephews, Jack and Karl Stender of Boonton, NJ; and was Godfather to his niece, Julia Ripoli (boyfriend, Michael Bromley) of Verona, NJ. He is further survived by many cousins, other relatives, and numerous friends.

Pete received his bachelor of arts degree in communications from Jersey City State College. He went on to study theater at the University of North Carolina in a master's program. He had many opportunities to explore his artistic side, as he served as stage manager and director of numerous plays.

After college, Pete went on to work many years, serving the physically and mentally disabled communities - he had found his niche. In 1989, through one of his employers, namely - A Very Special Place, Pete met Peg. From the beginning, they were a perfect complement for each other. They went on to marry on November 21, 1992.

A few year later, Pete's career was cut short in 1996, when he sustained a physically disabling work injury. However, despite these significant changes and setbacks, Pete remained active. He loved to walk and even participated in many local 10K Bridge Run/Walks over the years.

Pete's favorite music artist was Bruce Springsteen, and as often as he could, he would take an airline flight to attend concerts all over the United States.

Pete was an active member of AA for over 24 years, sponsoring many men over the years. He took great joy in watching his sponsees succeed in life, being right there alongside them during their ups and downs. He was quick to offer words of encouragement. As a result, he was considered a member of the families of his sponsees and will be greatly missed. Pete always shared his experience, strength and hope from his heart. He did not waste, nor mince words.

Pete was a gentle giant. His qualities of empathy, patience, and tolerance dynamically shone through - both in his professional and personal life. God surely granted Pete many gifts and listening was definitely at the top ot that list. He touched many people in his lifetime and was a shining example of selflessness.

Like many, Pete's relationship with God and his faith was tumultuous throughout his life. Over time, Pete's faith journey had grown tremendously, and we are comforted to know that he is now in the arms of our Savior.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Mcalister-Smith Funeral Home in Goose Creek. The service will follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private, immediately following the service. Friends and family will meet at Northwood Church, 4020 2nd Avenue, Summerville, SC 29486, for a reception and Celebration of Life at 12:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Northwood Church, 4020 2nd Avenue, Summerville, SC 29486, or at https://wearenorthwood.com/give.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com/.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 869 St. James Avenue, Goose Creek, SC 29445, (843) 553-1511.