Roger M. Phipps, 71, Kokomo, unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012, at St. Vincent hospital, Indianapolis. He was born March 26, 1940, and graduated from Kokomo High School in 1958. On July 19, 1969, he married Barbara Jane (Freese) Phipps, who survives. While attending Indiana University, he acquired his pilot license of which he was very proud. He was a member of the National Guard, an endowment member of the National Rifle Association, and a Journeyman Pipefitter with Local 440, having retired in 2003. A genius mind, he enjoyed designing and constructing complex and elaborate creative projects. In addition to his wife of 42 years, survivors are his sister, Luann Shoffner (the late Wayne)and her daughter, Kristi; his most loved children and grandchildren; son, Jay Milan (fiancé, Tanya (Bates) Johnson); especially loved granddaughters, Hayden, Maya, and Addison Phipps and Jena Johnson; daughter, Jill Margaret Enustun (Stacey); and first-loved granddaughter, Emage. Awaiting him in peaceful life-ever after are his parents, Robert and Louise; grandparents; and most recently, Aunt Grace Jay. Roger requested no services in hopes that all his beloved family, good friends, acquaintances and former co-workers keep a perpetual memorial in his memory by recalling all the good, happy and fun times he has had with each and all. Into the arms of angels, goes his peaceful, loving soul. A gentle soul with a special sensitivity to the care and welfare of animals and nature, Roger would appreciate any memorials be made to a humane society, a nature center nearby, or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be made to the family through www.bussellfamilyfunerals.com, who are handling his requested cremation. Arrangements and care entrusted to Bussell Family Funerals.
Dear Phipps Family, I am sorry to hear about Roger's death. Lots of great childhood memories pass through my head when I think about growing up on the Eastside of K-town. Roger and Luann were always friends with the Dunn Clan. It is to bad kids can not have the great times that we did in creating and building and etc. Blessings to all and I will not forget Roger.
BJ & Family, I am so thankful that you & Roger both shared so many great happy moments! Together you raised wonderful children, cared for the earth we borrow, and together lived it the way it's supposed to be lived. You have always been such an inspiration to our whole Family and me and I have learned much from you, which I'm forever grateful. Our Family is strong and we’ve been blessed and surrounded by the best this planet has to offer. Roger made the world a better place and I know you and your children will continue with his Spirit! Always loved the old Indian custom of basing all their actions on how it will affect 7 generations into the future; that is, the future we leave our children with. Roger passed that test with flying colors. Luv you Cuz!
Barb and family, God only takes us when it is our time. We all know there is a time to live and a time to die. It hasn't been so long since I lost my mother. It was so very hard until I accepted that she was with daddy, my brother and my daughter again in heaven with no more pain. I thank God and hope you do too that Rog did not have the pain. God Bless you all. He will always be with you in your hearts.
Dear Phipps family, So sorry for your loss. I was a classmate of Roger's at Kokomo High School.Although we did not run around together I got to know Roger as his father and mine worked together.When I think of Roger at KHS I think of one of the most pleasant,decent and caring individuals there was-which were rare qualities so openly exhibited for kids our age. In reading the comments of others who had a relationship with him after our high school years he sure didn't loose those qualities. My sincerest condolences for you loss.
Thank you Rog for the opportunity to know you. Our lives were more blessed with you in them. Our prayers are with you. May God hold you in the palm of his hand.