Harry Ribo (1920-1996)
[Obituary by Rev. Craig H. Bode for his funeral, January 16, 1996.]
Harry W. Ribo was born on July 13, 1920 in Cleveland, Ohio, son of William and Mary Ribo and brother to older sister, Helen. Following the divorce of their parents, Helen and Harry were welcomed as a step-children by John Kreskow, who married their mother and with her provided them with a good home.
As a youth in Cleveland Harry became an active part of the fellowship of Windermere Methodist Church. There he received much of the early spiritual training, which helped mold the deep character and Christian faith which marked his life and impressed and influenced all who knew him.
Even at a young age Harry's life was distinguished by a great love for people. A lifelong hobby of making friends filled his life with many people, who always found in Harry an encouraging word or an inspiring poem or a spirit-lifting smile.
Harry began working as a machinist with APEX Electric, but willingly interrupted his career to serve his country and the cause of freedom during World War II. Here too he distinguished himself as a Corporal in the 11th Army Air Force, serving in the Aleutian Islands.
After the war Harry met Theresa Krieger through the Hiking Club at a public dance, where they enjoyed their first of many waltzes. They were married on October 9, 1954 and grew together in love over the next 41 years. Unable to have children of their own the Ribos were still able to touch the life of many a child and youth as for years they taught Sunday School and served as sponsors and counselors to the youth of their church ... a challenging ministry that they enjoyed as much, if not more, than the kids. But more than just in an official capacity, Harry and Terry found the opportunities that many miss in day-to-day life to love and encourage and play with many a child. With the warmth of his smile and personality Harry endeared himself to countless people throughout his life ... young and old.
Thirteen years with APEX Electric ended when the company closed down leading Harry to several temporary jobs before finding a second career with the United States Postal Service. Many found a friend in Harry as he would complete his parcel post delivery route in downtown Cleveland in the cleanest postal truck in the city. Harry continued to deliver the mail to his neighbors, working out of the Euclid station as a foot carrier until his retirement in 1980. Their years of retirement gave Harry and Terry ample opportunity to enjoy life, love and laughter with family and friends, many who will never be able to hear a recitation of "Casey at the Bat" without thinking of Harry.
Harry enjoyed excellent health throughout his life, never missing a day of work and never taking any sick leave and even threatening to "live to be 100." But in June of 1994 a melanoma was discovered on his back, which despite thorough treatment continued to spread as cancer throughout much of his body, eventually finding its way to his spine and brain. But even as cancer worked its destructive forces in his body Harry remained strong in faith and in good spirits, unstoppable in his ability to bring smiles to the faces before him and to fill the room he was in with laughter and warmth.
Finally, this past Friday evening, at the age of 75, Harry died in his home of 22 years, in the care and watchful presence of his faithful wife, Terry. He died peacefully, certain of the love of family and friends, and certain of the eternal joys that awaited him in Heaven with the Lord who loved him and cared for him through all of life.
Harry is survived by his wife, Theresa, his sister and brother-in-law, Michael and Helen Toth, an uncle, Arvi Humppi, an aunt, Ida Humppi and many other friends and relatives. Having "fought the good fight," having "finished the race" and having "kept the faith," Harry's mortal remains will be laid to rest at Knollwood Cemetery in Mayfield Heights.
Harry refreshed the lives of many, bringing joy and offering Christian love to those around him. Always the gentleman and faithfully there for family and friends, Harry will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of being a part of his life.