Martin Lester Van Riper

Martin L. Van Riper Jr., 85, peacefully passed away at his daughter's home in San Jacinto, CA on Monday, October 12, 2020. He was married to Lonnie M. (King) Van Riper for 60 years. Martin Van Riper Jr. was born in Glen Ridge, NJ on April 5, 1935, to Martin L. Van Riper Sr. and Eunice H. Downer Van Riper. He was raised in Bloomfield, NJ and graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1953.

Martin graduated from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1966. He worked for the New Jersey Department of Transportation for 31 years, until his retirement in 1991. Martin spent 25 years of service with the United States Air Force, United States Air Force Reserve, and the New Jersey Air National Guard. He retired in 1980 at the rank of Lt. Colonel.

In 1992, Martin and Lonnie Van Riper left New Jersey and relocated to California so they could be closer to their daughters and first grandchild. He spent his retirement years volunteering for the Hemet Police Department, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and school events. Martin loved Hawaii and made that his vacation destination.

He will be remembered for always supporting and being there for his children and grandchildren. Martin loved to play games (and sneakily win) at whatever game was being played. He helped his middle daughter (Debra Van Riper Carignan) sell candles on the weekends (and was known as ‘The Colonel’ by all the vendors). Martin had a passion and joy for life and travel.

Martin Van Riper Jr. was preceded in death by his parents, Martin L. Van Riper and Eunice H. (Downer) Van Riper. Survivors include his wife Lonnie M. (King) Van Riper his children Dianne M. Van Riper, Debra M. (Van Riper) Carignan, Martin L. Van Riper III, Son-in law Craig Carignan, Daughter-in law Janine L. (Doll) Van Riper, and grandchildren Brittany L. Eyles, Ryan M. Van Riper, Tyler J. Van Riper, Nico M. Carignan and Amber E. Carignan