Royal “Trip” Trepanier
Posted: May 20, 2022
Royal James Trepanier passed away on March 10, 2022. Royal was born on October 10, 1934, in
Oconto, Wisconsin, to Joyce Rice Trepanier and Basil William Trepanier. His family moved to
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where he lived until joining the United States Air Force (USAF). Royal
was transferred to Columbus Air Force Base in Columbus, Mississippi in 1965. While stationed at CAFB, he met Frances Powers Robertson, mother of Dale and Dana Robertson. They were married on June 26, 1968. Royal, affectionately known as Trip, was a proud veteran. He left high school to join the Air Force and serve his country, on May 20, 1952. Trip served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Trip was always proud of his 20 years of military service. He achieved the rank of Technical Sergeant. He received many medals and commendations during his service including, the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. Trip officially retired from the USAF May 31, 1972 Trip and Frances opened Gateway Florist in 1972 following his retirement from USAF. The florist was in operation approximately 40 years. Trip was a competitive bowler, participating in and winning many tournaments. He enjoyed floral design, running the business and the opportunity of meeting people. Trip was an ardent fan of Mississippi State sports and the Green Bay Packers. Trip became a member of First Christian Church in Columbus in 1966 where he was an active member until 2020.
Trip is survived by his family, Dale Robertson and Dana Halvorsen (John); grandchildren, Alex Robertson, Benjamin Halvorsen, Daniel Halvorsen (Amy), Christine Halvorsen; and one great-grandchild, Josephine Halvorsen.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; his parents, Joyce and Basil; four brothers, Wayne, Rolland, William, Basil Junior; and sister, Marney Krueger.
A memorial service will be held May 21, 2022, at 11 AM at Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.