New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“William D. Tripp, 74, of Westport, passed away on Sunday, October 24, 2021 at home. He was the husband of the late Helena (Rodrigues) Tripp.
Born in Fall River, son of the late David C. and Alice L. (Nicholson) Tripp, he was a lifelong resident of Westport. A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, he served his country as a Platoon Staff Sergeant in the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army.
While serving in Vietnam, he was the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Bronze Stars, Bronze Star Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Prior to retirement in 2002, he was a firefighter for the Town of Westport for 33 years, serving as Fire Chief for nearly 20 years.
Mr. Tripp was a member of the Bristol County Fire Chiefs Association, Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts, International Association of Fire Chiefs, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, Vietnam Veterans of America and several other fire service and veteran organizations. He was a graduate of Westport High School Class of 1965.
Survivors include a son: Scott W. Tripp and his wife Amy of Westport; a daughter: Kimberley T. Legendre and her husband Brian of Westport; 5 grandchildren: Melinda E. Tripp, Reaghan E. Tripp, Cason D. Tripp, Brook E. Legendre and Brenna E. Legendre; his companion: Rhonda Gagnon; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral to which relatives and friends are invited will be Friday, October 29, 2021 at the Potter Funeral Home at 10:00 A.M.
Calling hours Thursday 5 – 8 P.M. Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: 21 FrienDS, 1118 Drift Rd., Westport, MA 02790.”
Westport Fire Department photo.
