Michael J. Trippel

McAllen—Michael "Mike" J. Trippel, beloved husband, father, and community leader, passed away Friday, April 26th, 2024, at 74. Mike was the second born on March 9th, 1950, to Richard C. and Margaret "Rita" (Shaw) Trippel in Los Angeles, California. Mike grew up in L.A. The family moved to Milan, Italy, for a short time period for his father’s work but returned to L.A. within a few years, where Mike graduated from Loyola High School in Los Angeles.  Mike attended the University of California in Long Beach. Mike joined his family in Houston and transferred to the University of Houston, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Finance. 

Mike started his career in banking at a number of institutions, including InterFirst & Allied Fairbanks in Houston. It was about this time that Tammy was in Houston visiting an old friend who happened to work with Mike. Tammy's friend insisted that Tammy and Mike meet; the rest is history. Tammy fondly refers to Mike as her best vacation souvenir ever. They were married in 1984. 

In 1985, Mike accepted an offer to work for Elsa State Bank which resulted in him and Tammy relocating to McAllen. Mike would go on to become C.O.O. of Elsa State Bank.  They raised two boys and became integral parts of the community. 

Mike's leadership and professionalism earned him respect as a trusted banker. He worked for Elsa State Bank, Lone Star National Bank and, most recently, the Bank of South Texas. 

Mike's unwavering commitment and exceptional work ethic extended beyond his profession. He was a community leader and volunteered for various organizations. Mike served on the Board of Directors for Knapp Medical Center and the Delta Region Revitalization Corporation. One of Mike's favorite organizations was the Rotary Club, where he served in numerous capacities for over thirty years, eventually becoming a Paul Harris Fellow. 

When Mike wasn't working or volunteering, he had plenty of hobbies. He was passionate about all sports, but his favorites were the Tennessee Titans, Houston Rockets, Houston Astros, U of H, U.S.C., and golf. Mike, Tammy, and their two boys took many road trips. Their most memorable trips were to Houston, Irving, Rockport, Conroe/Montgomery, Florida, and New Mexico. Their travel included memorable cruises through Alaska's icy waters and the sun-soaked Caribbean shores. Many of these trips were spent with cherished family and friends. Mike also enjoyed scuba-diving and was a Certified PADI Open Water Diver. 

While at home in McAllen, whether it was savoring cheeseburgers in paradise - a beloved family theme song - swimming joyfully with loved ones, or orchestrating delightful backyard barbecues, Mike's presence illuminated every gathering. 

 Mike was a great provider dedicated to ensuring Tim and Matt's future with school, financial stability, or other needs. When the boys moved out, Sunday evening phone calls became a treasured tradition for sharing stories about the week's events, sports discussions, work anecdotes, and reflections on life's journey.

Mike was a man of faith. His Catholic upbringing and morals were evident in his professional and personal life. Mike was loving, focused, supportive, thoughtful, loyal, and funny. His integrity never wavered, and Mike's dedication as a husband and father are his proudest achievements. 

Mike is preceded in death by his mom, Margaret "Rita" Trippel, and his step-mom, Helen Trippel.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of just shy of forty years, Tammy Trippel; his father, Richard C. Trippel Sr.; sons, Tim Trippel and Matt Trippel; brothers, Richard C. "Buck" Trippel Jr. (Claudia), Steven Trippel, James “Jim” Trippel (Donna-deceased), sisters, Pamela “Pam” Baker (Rick), and Diane Trippel, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

As we gather to honor Michael's memory at the Celebration of Life service scheduled for Thursday, May 2nd, from 4-8 p.m., at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco, we fondly remember a man whose legacy will forever resonate in our hearts.

 In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Michael may be made to Loyola High School, 1901 Venice Blvd. L.A., CA 90006-4401 Attn: Alexy K. Coughlin VP of Advancement.

Mike's spotify playlist is also attached...