Lawrence "Larry" T. Ripka , age 77, of Owatonna, died Monday, July 27, 2015 at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Mary's Campus in Rochester. He was born August 16, 1937 in Carpenter, Iowa the son of Anton and Alma (Schwenke) Ripka . Larry graduated from Dodge Center High School in 1955. Larry worked at the Owatonna Canning Company before he entered the U.S Army from 1957-1960. He worked for Sampson Dairy. Larry married Barb Mulso on June 24, 1989 in Albert Lea. He worked for Consolidated Freightway for 25 years retiring in 2002. Larry later worked for the Owatonna Bus Company and retired in 2012. Larry loved fishing and enjoyed bowling, softball, and had the gift of gab. He is survived by his Wife, Barb Ripka of Owatonna, sons Kevin Ripka of Phoenix, AZ and Mark (Elaine) Ripka of Owatonna, 2 step children Stacy (Tony) Moran and Dean (Ann) Mulso, 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and 11 siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Brian Ripka, and one brother. Memorial services will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Saturday, August 1, 2015 at 11 AM with Reverend Mark Rosenau officiating. Larry's family will greet friends during the luncheon following the service. Military honors will be provided by the Steele County Military Funeral Unit. Memorials are preferred to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church or Homestead Hospice House. Michaelson Funeral Home is handling arrangements.