Nancy Lowe Kriplen

Nancy Lowe Kriplen, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, accomplished author, lifetime piano player and dedicated community member, died peacefully in the early hours of December 25. She was 93.

A true daughter of Indiana, Kriplen was born in Indianapolis on April 30, 1932, to Louis and Madelyn Lowe. A descendant of early settlers Seth and Rebecca Lowe, whose homestead in Kingston, Indiana remains a beloved family gathering place. She grew up in Indianapolis alongside her brother, L. Robert Lowe Jr., and remained deeply connected to the state throughout her life.

Kriplen graduated from Purdue University, where she served as editor‑in‑chief of The Exponent, the campus daily newspaper. Her early career included editorial positions at TIME magazine in New York and at Scripps Howard’s Indianapolis Times. She went on to become a widely published freelance author whose work appeared in the New York Times, Smithsonian, Discover, Saveur, and numerous other publications.

A gifted biographer, Kriplen authored several well‑regarded books, including J. Irwin Miller: The Shaping of an American Town; Dwight Davis: The Man and the Cup; The Eccentric Billionaire: John D. MacArthur – Empire Builder, Reluctant Philanthropist, Relentless Adversary; Keep An Eye On That Mummy and Exploring Indianapolis, a series of popular local guidebooks.

Her professional affiliations included the American Society of Journalists and Authors, Biographers International, and the Authors Guild—organizations that reflect her lifelong commitment to journalism.

Beyond her literary achievements, Kriplen was an active community member. She served with organizations including the Indianapolis Day Nursery, the Indianapolis Woman’s Club, the Players Club, and the English-Speaking Union. She and her family also contributed to Indianapolis’ vibrant sports and cultural life, hosting players for the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championships and accompanists for the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis.

A lifelong member and long-time Elder of Second Presbyterian Church, she lived a life rich in service, faith, and intellectual curiosity.

Nancy and Dave Kriplen were married in 1959, and together they raised three children. She is survived by Marsh Kriplen (Alyssa) of Miami, Florida; Kate Pierson (Bryce) of Martinsville, Indiana; and Madelyn Nasser (Rich) of Bend, Oregon. She also leaves five grandchildren: Saffron Perich (Nick), Leo Duffy, Eleanor Kriplen, Cam Nasser, and Lucy Nasser. Her brother, L. Robert Lowe Jr., preceded her in death.

Nancy Lowe Kriplen will be remembered for her inquisitive nature, pride in Indiana, love of music and devotion to family and community.

A funeral service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church on January 2nd, time available on the Indiana Funeral Care website.