James V. Ripper, 84, of Northview Estates, Ellwood City, formerly of Evans City, died Friday at his home.

Born Jan. 31, 1922, in Evans City, he was the son of Norman Ray Sr. and Esther Peterson Ripper.

He was an active member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Evans City. He was also a past president of the Evans City Rotary and the first president of the Evans City Historical Society.

He retired from Mine Safety Appliances after 38 years.

During World War II, he was a staff sergeant with the 100th Infantry Division in Europe.

Surviving are a son, Gary J. Ripper and his companion, Susan Pollock, of Ellwood City; a daughter, Nancy Nocera and her husband, Michael, of Ellwood City; five grandchildren; one great-grandson; a brother, Norman Ray Ripper Jr. of Evans City; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor Porter Ripper, who died Feb. 10, 1992.

RIPPER — Friends of James V. Ripper, who died Friday, Feb. 3, 2006, will be received from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at BOYLAN FUNERAL HOME, 116 E. Main St., Evans City. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 202 Van Buren St., Evans City, with the Rev. David R. Saylor, the church pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Evans City Cemetery.Online condolences and information are available at boylanfuneralhome.com.