Glenn “Rip” Fulton
Glenn “Rip” Fulton: Passed away on September 24, 2024 at the age of 89
Glenn “Rip” Fulton, 89, of Green Valley, Arizona passed away on September 24th, 2024. Born and raised on a farm in Sparta, Illinois, he later graduated from Monmouth College where he met his wife Elaine (née Richards) of Bloomsburg, PA. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary before her passing in 2018. Rip is survived by his two daughters: Stacy Lagan (and her husband Mark Lagan) of Madison, WI and Cara Fulton (and her husband Mario Cristaldo) of Washington, DC.
While most of his life was dedicated to institutional food sales, his real passion was sports. He excelled in any sport he took up and became an avid supporter of several teams at the University of Arizona after retiring to Green Valley, AZ from DeKalb, Il. You could often spot him on TV during men’s and women’s basketball games, women’s softball matches, and women’s volleyball events.
Baseball and Basketball held a special place in his heart. He came close making it into the pros for the St. Louis Cardinals and played varsity basketball in college. Golf was also part of his career, and he played on some of the best courses across the country. However, it was at Pebble Beach, the world-renowned course with the world’s largest water hazard -- the Pacific Ocean–– that his sporting journey took an unexpected turn. Perhaps he lost too many balls in the water hazard because after completing 18 holes, he headed to the pro shop to exchange his clubs for a tennis racket. When he asked the pro to set him up with someone to hit with, the pro asked, “Well, how long have you been playing?” Rip famously replied, “I’m starting today.” His newfound love of tennis soon eclipsed all other sports. Despite not picking up a tennis racket until age 35, he eventually became the #1 ranked doubles player in the United States Tennis Association in the Midwest. He continued to play in leagues and tournaments across the country and in Green Valley well into his 70s.
Whether he was at work, on the court, or sharing his famous “Dad Jokes,” Rip will be fondly remembered for his great sense of humor. He leaves behind cherished memories and will be dearly missed by all who know him.