James Arthur Kippert, 87, passed away in his home on April 14, 2019 in Greenfield, Indiana. Jim was born in Piqua Ohio to Clarence (Red) and Viola (Mae) Kippert and grew up with his brother Richard (Dick). He met and married the beautiful, capable and sassy Norma Baumann. They had 6 children. He worked as a food salesman and enjoyed reminiscing on his favorite route through the college campuses of Indiana. He could tell you the names of the people he interacted with on his route and recall the smallest detail. His career success was achieved by building genuine and sincere relationships, which came quite naturally to him, with the customers he served. Being down-to-earth was who he was. He loved his family and strived to provide for their wellbeing. With an opportunity for promotion and a desire to make a better life for his family he moved to the Northside of Indianapolis in 1968. After researching the area he settled his family in Sherwood Forest. It was a community that gathered with their children for all major occasions with apple bobbing on Halloween and float building and parades for Independence Day. It was an idealistic setting for his family.
Jim worked hard all his life well past retirement age. His proudest life accomplishment, which he said often and never stopped saying was, God gave me the 6 most beautiful children a man could ask for. His daughters were his angels and he referred to their husbands as heroes. He took great pride in his sons and the lives they led. He lived independently and with great positivity. He never complained. He asked for nothing but was always willing to share and give what he could. His greetings were exuberant. He was young at heart, spry and moved about energetically. He was a joy to hang out with. He loved visits from family but also embraced his independence. He was dedicated to Wheel of Fortune and we are sorry to see the show outlasted him. In 35 years, it wasn’t often that he missed a show and we were always mindful not to disturb him when it was on. His mind was alert and sharp and he usually won when playing Scrabble or Upwords. He delighted in the daily Jumbo and Crossword Puzzle in the local paper. He read with a thirst on all his interests. He kept up with local and world events. If you didn’t know something, he would be the guy to ask. He would have done well on Jeopardy but for some reason, didn’t enjoy that program. He will be very dearly missed but we are so grateful to have had this man in our lives who we called uncle, grandpa and dad! He prayed for each of his kids and their families and for their happiness every day. He loved them and we loved him! We will miss you dad!
Jim is survived by his 6 children: Mark Kippert (Cathy), Joe Kippert (Amy), Julie Santiago (Ed), Susan Torkildson (James), Beth Trump (Buddi), Rebecca Weaver, 18 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Visitation will be Saturday, April 27th from 12-2 pm with a service immediately following at Indiana Funeral Care, 8151 Allisonville Road. In lieu of flowers, memorials donations may be made to Jim’s favorite charity St. Vincent de Paul. Special condolences may be expressed at Funeral home Link.
Diana Torkildson says
Dear Susan and family, we are so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. I know how close you were to him and how much he will be missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers and sending you love. Dave and Di
Jack and Nancy Case says
So sorry about your dad . We all have such great memories about our families having fun together and loving every minute . Jack called him a really good friend and loved working with him all those years at Chef’s Pantry and partying with him . They had a lot of fun. You are in our prayers for healing and comfort .
Jack and Nancy
Tim and Pam Pedigo says
It was so wonderful to read about Jim. He,was a blessing to his family, friends and everyone who knew him. Now we can understand why he was so loved, especially by our dear friend, Julie. He had a wonderful life.
Terrie Synesael says
Susan,
So sorry to hear of your fathers passing. It sounds like you have some wonderful memories. Will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Barb Stokes says
I’m so glad I got to meet your Father Julie, such a sweet man. So glad he moved to this area, so you and your family could be with him in his later years. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Wendy Sangl says
Dear Julie,
What a beautifully penned eulogy about a happy, fulfilling life, a life well lived. It sounds as if you and your family have many memories to cherish and those are truly life’s greatest treasures. I am so sorry for your loss and will be thinking of and praying for your family during this time and in the days to come. Wendy Sangl, Edward Jones