Beloved Michigan State Trooper Randall Tripp Dies at 75

Tripp, a longtime DARE officer, is remembered for his community service and love of family.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Randall Tripp, a 25-year veteran of the Michigan State Police and beloved DARE officer, passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 75 after a battle with cancer. Tripp is survived by his wife Kathy, their three children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He was known for his community service, including volunteering for the Department on Aging's home-delivered meals program.

Why it matters

Tripp's passing marks the end of an era for the Michigan State Police, where he was one of the first officers trained in the DARE program and taught generations of students about the dangers of drug abuse. His commitment to public service and community engagement made him a beloved figure in the Adrian and Tecumseh areas.

The details

Tripp joined the Michigan State Police in 1975 after completing the police academy and the VISTA program in New York City. He was assigned to the Blissfield Post and later worked at the Adrian Post and Detroit freeway post during his 25-year career. Tripp was known for his work with the DARE program, teaching drug prevention education to students across Lenawee County. After retiring in 2000, he continued to volunteer for the Department on Aging's home-delivered meals program.

  • Tripp was born in Bay City, Michigan in the 1950s.
  • He met his wife Kathy while attending Michigan State University in the early 1970s.
  • Tripp and Kathy were married on September 9, 1973 in Rochester, Michigan.
  • Tripp joined the Michigan State Police in 1975 and served for 25 years before retiring in 2000.
  • Tripp passed away on March 5, 2026 at the age of 75 after a battle with cancer.

The players

Randall Tripp

A 25-year veteran of the Michigan State Police who was known for his work with the DARE program and community service.

Kathleen "Kathy" Tripp

Randall Tripp's wife of over 50 years, who he met while they were both students at Michigan State University.

Glenn and Ruby Tripp

Randall Tripp's parents, who raised him in Bay City, Michigan.

Justin Tripp

One of Randall and Kathy Tripp's three children.

Sara Tripp

One of Randall and Kathy Tripp's three children.

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What they’re saying

“Randy was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed a little help. Before his illness, he was a faithful driver for the Department on Aging home delivered meals program where he enjoyed meeting people and their dogs!”

— Kathy Tripp, Randall Tripp's Wife (wlen.com)

What’s next

Randall Tripp's funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 10 AM at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Tecumseh, Michigan. He will be privately buried at Oakwood Cemetery following the service.

The takeaway

Randall Tripp's legacy as a dedicated Michigan State Trooper, DARE officer, and community volunteer will be remembered fondly by those whose lives he touched over his 25-year career and in retirement. His commitment to public service and making a difference in his local community is an inspiring example for others to follow.