Ripple Van Engen

Ripple Van Engen, age 74, passed away Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Ripple was born June 23, 1950, Mason City to Raymond and Joyce (Beasley) Nelson. She worked various jobs throughout her life, lastly for Polk County Public Works and Health Department as a clerk, retiring after 11 years there.

She was a member of the Red Hat Society. Ripple enjoyed crocheting and Tai Chi. She loved all animals, and especially her cats. Ripple was a loving person and the caretaker to many, taking care of many friends and elderly neighbors. She loved her family and adored her nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Keith Van Engen; sisters, Ava Nelson, Rita (Steve) Fett, and Lissa (Mike) Honken; nieces, Jessica Badker, Casey (Jason) Bjorklund, Sierra (Drew) Rasmussen, and Katy Honken; great-nieces and nephews, Knick, Kaleigh, Kaleb, Noah, Carter, Kendra, Marley, Jackson and Harrison; and in-laws, Cheryl Lins, Angela (Tim) Lins Christman, Amie (Matt) Lins Attanasoff, Cori (Randy) Tinnes, Ryan Tinnes, and Jeff Cummins.

Ripple was preceded in death by parents and brother, Charles.

There will be a celebration of life in the Spring.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or the Food Bank of Iowa.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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Dave Williamson

01/14/2025

I worked with Ripple at the Public Works Department for many years. She was a great person. My condolences to her family.

Dave Williamson