1952 – 2026
David (“Dave”) Tripp passed away on April 5, 2026, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Beverley (“Bev”) Tripp (Higgins); his sons, Michael, Caleb, and Conor Tripp; daughter-in-law Erin Tripp (O’Halloran); his grandson, Wesley Tripp; his sister, Susan Tripp; and brother-in-laws Earl and Bruce Higgins. He was predeceased by his parents, Jean (Burns) and Donald Tripp.
Born on February 20, 1952, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Dave was known from an early age for his intelligence, even skipping a grade during his time at Halifax Grammar School. He went on to study finance at Dalhousie University, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in public service. It was during this time that Dave met Bev, who worked as a teller at a local bank. Dave would stand in line just to talk to her—marking the beginning of their life’s adventure together.
Early in their years together, Dave and Bev moved to Ontario where Dave worked for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. He also served as a town councillor in Almonte, Ontario, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to community leadership. Dave, Bev and the boys later returned to the Maritimes where Dave joined the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and rose to become Chief Risk Officer before retiring.
Dave’s investment in community deepened after making Riverview, New Brunswick his home. He founded the Atlantic Hockey Group, helping to build the foundation for the elite hockey development organization it is today. He spent many years as a dedicated coach in minor hockey across Moncton, Riverview, and Lewisville, and served as head coach of the Moncton High Purple Knights. His involvement in hockey left a lasting impact on the young athletes he mentored—some of whom shared, years later, how much he had influenced their lives.
A devoted fan of the Boston Bruins, Dave brought that same passion, humour, and competitiveness into everyday life. He was cheeky, quick-witted, and always ready for a laugh with his sons, neighbours, and close friends—especially Mal and Joe. He cherished time at the cottage on Washdemoak Lake, where many of his happiest memories were made with family and friends. As Bev often said, Dave was up for anything—he took risks and relished new experiences.
That spirit was perhaps best captured in an epic, unscheduled road trip across the United States with Caleb and Conor when they were just 14 and 11. With no real plan beyond the adventure itself, the trip became the kind of story retold for years—including the time they made off with a Route 66 sign in Missouri. That was Dave’s idea.
Dave will be remembered for his sharp mind, his dedication to sport and community, his leadership, and his enduring sense of humour. He will be missed by those who loved him.
His family will be receiving relatives and friends at Cobb’s Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 330 Whitepine Road, Riverview on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson Canada. The family wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the caregivers at Protem Memory Care on Mountain Road in Moncton for their compassionate care.
