Daniel "Dan" Edward Rypkema

DANIEL “DAN” EDWARD RYPKEMA 1960 – 2025 Daniel “Dan” Edward Rypkema, age 65, of Plattsmouth, NE, passed away suddenly at his residence on Monday, June 23, 2025. Dan was born on February 10, 1960, in Worthington, MN, to Stanley Edward Rypkema and Arla Mae (Koopmann) Rypkema. At the age of two, his family relocated to Palo Alto, CA, where he was raised and attended school. He graduated from Palo Alto High School and began his career in the restaurant industry as a cook. Dan met the love of his life, Teresa Maria McElhinney, through mutual friends. They were married on May 16, 1994, in Redwood City, CA, and made their home in Palo Alto and later in Belmont. Over the years, Dan worked as a cook at Whole Foods and Safeway, and eventually transitioned into plumbing before relocating to Nebraska in 2012. Dan loved spending time outdoors and especially enjoyed fishing. His favorite fishing spots included Beaver Lake in Nebraska and Coyote Point in California. Dan is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Rypkema of Plattsmouth, NE; his daughter, Colleen Benoit and her husband Jesse of Plattsmouth, NE; his mother, Arla Rypkema of Plattsmouth, NE; his sister, Rebecca Forrest of Seattle, WA; his sister-in-law, Connie DeGraw of Worthington, OH; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Stanley Rypkema. A Personal Tribute Dan left a lasting impression not only on his family, but also on those who knew him over the years. The father of Colleen’s childhood best friend, Fred, shared these heartfelt words: “Even though it’s been nearly 20 years since those days in Belmont, I still carry warm and vivid memories of your dad. I remember Dan as a man of quiet strength and kindness, someone whose presence made you feel both welcome and at ease. He had that rare ability to speak volumes without many words, and when he did speak, it was always with meaning. I can still picture the gentle way he looked at you, with pride and love shining through—a father who clearly cherished his daughter.” “While I know no words can fully ease the pain of your loss, I hope you find comfort in your faith and in the promise that Dan is now truly at peace. As Paul wrote in Philippians 1:23, ‘I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.’ May you find hope in knowing Dan is with the Lord, embraced in perfect peace, and that this goodbye is only temporary.” — With deepest sympathy, Fred A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 1:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Roby Funeral Home in Plattsmouth. Memorial donations may be made to the family. A charitable organization will be selected at a later date. Services are entrusted to Roby Funeral Home, 346 Avenue A, Plattsmouth, NE 68048 (402) 296-3123 robyfuneralhome@charter.net www.robyfuneralhome.com

Daniel "Dan" Edward Rypkema

February 10, 1960 - June 23, 2025