Marian Rippeteau Klise
Our extraordinary wife, mother, grandmother and aunt, Marian Rippeteau Klise died peacefully on Friday, October 21, 2016 of causes incident to age. Marian’s joy for life and generous spirit were an inspiration to her family and friends. As a successful business woman, she had a keen mind and boundless energy.
Born May 30, 1929 in Kansas City, Missouri to Charles W. and Helen Peters Rippeteau, she was the oldest of two daughters. She often reminisced about her childhood, grateful that the love and support of her parents were her life’s constant companion. At a young age, she became an accomplished pianist, performing with the Kansas City Symphony at age 12.
Hitting her stride in college, she graduated from the University of Kansas. As a proud Jayhawker, she served as the Editor of the college yearbook and a member of many clubs and organizations. She enjoyed the lifelong friendships made as a member of Gamma Phi Beta. Her love of music continued as she took every opportunity to see and hear popular jazz and blues musicians of the day, many of whom called Kansas City home.
In 1951, she married Dewey R. Brodbeck (later divorced) and moved to Salt Lake City quickly becoming involved in civic and professional activities, hosting her own weekly radio show on KSL Radio. Following the birth of her two children, Lisa and Bob, her dedication as a mother knew no limits and lasted the rest of her life.
In 1971, Marian started her company, Rock Tools, Inc. The mining safety tool sold by the company was designed by her husband, Paul C. O’Leary (later divorced). In a predominately male industry, Marian stood out. Year by year, she built her company through hard work and enthusiasm. She gave generously of her time to organizations dedicated to international trade such as the World Trade Association and District Export Council. She was recognized by the Utah Department of Commerce and the Utah Department of Economic Development for her leadership in business.
Marian married Kenneth R. Klise in 1979, combining their two families. They enjoyed many years together. They placed family first, nurturing children and grandchildren. She extended her love and generosity beyond her family to include friends who became family. She saw only the best in people and was a treasured friend to many. In ways, large and small, she made the world a better place.
The family expresses appreciation to the many medical providers and caregivers who assisted in Marian’s care. Special thanks to dear friend Dr. Michael Adjei-Poku for his expertise and compassionate care and to the staffs at St. Joseph’s Villa and Silverado who cared for our Mom with skill and compassion. Though her health was declining in her final months, she remained very grateful for your kindness.
Preceded in death by her parents, sister, Jane Malott; daughter-in-law Wendy Brodbeck and step-son, Kenneth Klise, Jr.
Marian is survived by her husband, Kenneth; daughter Lisa Fall (Ken); son Robert Brodbeck; step-daughter Linda Klise; and step daughter Ellen Mitchell (Tom); grandchildren Elliot and Natalie Fall, Gabriel and Joshua Brodbeck, Amanda Mitchell, Libby Mitchell (Ryan Hoglund), Cate Kizerian (Dave), Sean Klise, Susie Sandoval (Diego) and Ken Pauley; niece Kathy Malott and other much loved family members.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 7, 2016 at Wasatch Presbyterian Church, 1626 South 1700 East at 11:00 am. A celebration of Marian’s life will be held in the fellowship hall immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Wasatch Presbyterian Church Deacons fund or the charity of choice.