Born on March 25, 1947 in Fall River, Massachusetts, Michael was the son of the late Frederick Tripp and Elizabeth Azevedo Tripp.

He grew up in East Providence, Rhode Island and attended LaSalle Academy where he was an undefeated high school wrestling champion. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, reporting to boot camp at Parris Island. Michael became a highly decorated and well-publicized veteran of the Vietnam War, completing 2 tours of duty. He was a crew chief with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 363, his helicopter, Yankee Zulu-77 was shot down about 500 meters from what became famously known as Peace Church in the midst of a raging battle, digging in with the grunts of Delta Company 1/9. His bravery in combat was recognized with numerous commendations and decorations, which he always accepted with humility, including the Silver Star, Purple Heart, and Air Medal 19th award.

Following his military service, Michael continued his education while working full time and raising a young family, graduating magna cum laude from Bryant College and ultimately opened his own firm, Michael W. Tripp, Certified Public Accountant. Dedicated to the service of others, Michael enriched his community in a variety of ways including leadership positions with the Board of Regents of La Salle Academy, Barrington PTA & School Committee, Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse as well as participating in many youth support programs including Big Brothers and the YMCA-Guides with his daughters. Michael was also an active participant in numerous veterans organizations including the American Legion and the organization of USMC HMM-363 Vietnam Helicopter Squadron reunions. Michael's youth was one of legend, an early latch key kid - he found companionship in the summer at Payne's Dock on Block Island. Returning as a sail boat racer and cruiser in his later years, he often could be found greeting the early risers on the very same docks with coffee and a smile.

Michael will be remembered for his great sense of humor, competitive spirit, his often colorful language and his great love of Irish folk music. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Ella; his children, Sandra and Wendy; his grandchildren, Tripper, Lyla, Thalia, and Theo; and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Frederick and Elizabeth and son in law Nicholas Tsilibes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 11am in Our Lady of Loreto Church, 346 Waterman Avenue, East Providence. Internment with full military honors is planned for a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Michael's name to La Salle Academy.  http://www.lasalle-academy.org/give-now .