The truck’s journey began in Ripon, where John and Marie lived when they purchased it in 1956. After John’s passing in 1970, it was handed down to their son Arthur, who cared for it until his passing in 2014. Arthur’s son, Arjen, then took ownership before bringing the truck back to its original Ripon property in 2024. Today, the truck is in the hands of Bill Emslie, John and Marie’s grandson, and his wife, Terry.  

Bill, a lifelong resident of Ripon, treasures the F100 as a family heirloom and a connection to the past. Its continuous presence within the family makes it truly special, symbolizing the Sipma family’s shared history.  

One of the most remarkable aspects of this F100 is its connection to everyday life and special moments. In the 1950s, John and Marie’s daughter, Jeannette Sipma De Mott, drove the truck daily to Ripon High School. A cherished photograph from 1956 shows Jeannette and her sister Gracie standing proudly in front of the truck. Decades later, in 2024, the sisters recreated that photo, standing once again with the truck that had been a part of their lives for so long.  

Last October, the truck also stood out at the Main Street Day Car Show. Its history and family ties drew admiration from visitors, including a moment captured in a photo of Jeannette and her son, Bill, proudly standing next to it.  

Although time has worn on this classic, Bill is restoring the truck to bring it back as close to its original condition. His goal is to honor the craftsmanship of the 1956 model while preserving the memories it holds for his family. The process reflects Bill’s dedication to preserving the truck’s legacy for future generations.  

The 1956 Ford F100 Stake Bed is a tangible link to Ripon’s history and the Sipma family’s roots. As the restoration progresses, this truck will continue to be a beloved family treasure, carrying forward its legacy with pride and care.