Western Springs is mourning the passing of a former police chief remembered for his demeanor and professionalism. William “Rip” Rypkema, 73, of Creal Springs in Southern Illinois, who died Monday, served as chief of the Western Springs Police Department from 1985 until his retirement in 2005.
“Chief Rypkema was a true gentleman who had the gift of being able to de-escalate any situation, no matter how complex or volatile, by virtue of his calm demeanor and listening abilities,” said the village’s current police chief, Brian Budds. “I was grateful that I had the opportunity to work with Chief Rypkema and I know many others share that same sentiment.”
Budds worked with Rypkema from 1996 until his retirement. He said Rypkema was “a class act. A great leader, mentor, and friend to all that were privileged to know him.”
Rypkema was born to Floyd and Marcella (Ashley) Rypkema in Sparta, Illinois Nov. 21, 1945. He married Betty Nash Aug. 4, 1991.
He received a degree in criminal justice from the Southern Illinois University and worked for 16 years for the Carbondale Police Department, earning the rank of lieutenant. He also studied at The FBI National Academy, a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement managers nominated by their agency heads because of demonstrated leadership qualities.
Michael Holub, former La Grange police chief, remembered that Rypkema brought “a fresh perspective and new ideas to the Western Springs Police Department. He motivated police officers to make service to the community as a primary task.”
Holub said Rypkema’s service extended beyond Western Springs. He was a past president of West Suburban Chiefs of Police Association and a long-standing member of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police.
“He was a mentor and confidant to many, including me,” Holub said.
Survivors include his wife, Betty Rypkema of Creal Springs; children, Michael (Gretchen) Rypkema, Matthew (Chaka) Rypkema, and Mandy (Jason) Rypkema, all of Portland, Oregon; a step-son, Dennis Nash of Springfield, Missoure; 8 grandchildren; and a sister Jo Ellen (Alan) Milligan of Buncombe.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Crain Pleasant Grove-Murdale Funeral Home in Murphysboro, Illinois with the Rev. Alan Milligan officiating. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Pleasant Grove Memorial Park.
Memorials can be made to the Eagle House Ministries and/or the Carbondale Police Department.
