April 13, 2004
 
 
Dear Shipley Family and Friends,
 
It is with a deeply pained heart that I write to inform you of the untimely death of Will Trippley '02. Will was shot in the head on Sunday afternoon near his home in Chester. He was operated on Sunday night and was placed on life-support. When I visited Will at Crozer-Chester Medical Center on Monday, it was clear that he had virtually no brain activity and no chance for recovery. He was taken off life-support Monday afternoon and passed away about 5 p.m.
 
Will was a vibrant, energetic, and talented young man. Well-liked by teachers and students, he was particularly renowned for his contributions to our soccer program. A four-year starter, he was a fierce competitor and was always the quickest and fastest player on the field. He was the co-captain and co-mvp of our 2001 Boys’ Soccer Team and had the ability to play virtually every position. A tenacious defender, he also had great foot skills and an eye for the goal. Regardless of where he played, he did anything necessary to help the team win. Moreover, he did everything with grace and poise. He was an all-league and state select player.
 
Off the field, Will was a gentle, caring, and compassionate individual. He had a huge heart and a warm smile. Loyal and committed, he was blessed with the ability to make others smile and laugh even in the most difficult of situations. It is no wonder he was such a dear friend to so many people. He was well-loved by everyone who knew him, and particularly revered by the Lower and Middle School students who followed soccer. His passing leaves a void in all of us.
 
There is no question that Will had a great deal to offer this world. His death, which reminds us just how fragile life can be, seems truly senseless. 

The service will take place on Monday, April 19 at 11:00 a.m. at:
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
101 Washington Ave.
Twin Oaks, PA 19014

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I know that you join me in sending our thoughts, love, and prayers to Will's family and that Will’s mother, Pat, will appreciate your notes and support. Her address is at the bottom of this letter.
 
At the request of a number of people, we are establishing a memorial fund in Will’s name. In time, we will find an appropriate way to perpetuate his memory here at Shipley. If you want to contribute to the fund, please make the check out to The Shipley School and designate it to the fund in Will’s name.
 
As I think of all of you, I have a vivid memory of handing Will his diploma in June of 2002. The smile on his face at that moment is one that I will remember forever.
 
Sincerely,          
 
Steven S. Piltch
Head of School

Ms. Patricia Trippley  
22 East 23rd Street
Chester, PA 19013