Gipe, Richard Henry – 1947-2021

BUCKLIN, GIPE, KAHLEY, KEITH, TINSLEY, WESTRUM

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 7/13/2021 at 21:35:36

Clive - Richard Gipe, age 73, passed away at his home on Friday, April 9, 2021, surrounded by his family. He was born the son of George and Mary (Keith) Gipe on August 7, 1947 in Des Moines, Iowa.
Richard proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for two years in Germany, the Vietnam War and the Reserves for 20 years. He selfishly gave himself to deliver bread to AM Vets, volunteer fire fighter for Mingo, and loved volunteering at the Food Pantry and Living History Farms. Richard worked for MTA for eight years and was a school bus driver for 15 years.
Some of his hobbies and interests included Ragbrai, fixing lawn mowers, going to the Iowa State Fair, and was a faithful watcher of Van and Bonnie. Richard enjoyed cooking and grilling for others spending time outdoors.
He is survived by the love of his life for over 20 years, Shelly Westrum; daughters, Angela Kay Gipe and Cynthia Ann Gipe; step-sons, Doug Kahley and Sean Westrum; siblings, Connie Bucklin, Bill (Deb) Gipe, Judy Ann Tinsley; and Michael (Ellen) Gipe; two grandchildren; and 3 step-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patty; infant brother, Sammy; and faithful mini poodle, Abbey.
Graveside service with military honors will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at Greencastle Cemetery in Greencastle (Mingo). Celebration of Life to follow from 3 to 7 pm at AM Vets, 2818 Fifth Ave., Des Moines, IA, 50313.
Source: Des Moines Register; April 12, 2021