Emma Lorene Ripka, age 86, of Meta, died Saturday, May 26, 2007, at Capital Region Medical Center. She was born in Miller County on September 14, 1920, daughter of James Oliver and Katie Belle (Kesterson) Hodge. On March 16, 1938, in Vienna, she was married to Albert W. "Bud" Ripka, who preceded her in death on March 23, 1996.

Survivors include one brother, James Hodge and wife, Norma of Meta; one sister, Mabel Wheat of St. Elizabeth; one granddaughter, Melinda Sue Stumpe of Meta; three great-grandchildren, Ryan, Breanna, and Shania Stumpe all of Meta; one daughter-in-law, Jeannette Ripka of Meta, one sister-in-law, Inez Hodge of St. Elizabeth; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Darrell Ripka; two infant sons, James and Earl Ripka; one grandson, David Ripka; four sisters; and two brothers.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 29, at Rekus Funeral Home in Meta. Services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Gene Edwards officiating. Interment will be in Stokes Cemetery near Meta.