Richard "Dick" Lee Shipman

Richard Lee (Dick) Shipman passed away peacefully at home on December 14th, 2016. Dick was born to Helen Burford Shipman and Howard Shipman on August 19th, 1931 in Rush, Colorado. The family moved briefly to Redding, California and moved to Big Springs when Dick was about two years old and he has lived in Siskiyou County since then. The family operated a dairy in Big Springs and because there are many chores to do on a farm and cows have to be milked twice a day regardless, Dick learned the value of a good work ethic starting pretty early in life. He was employed by the County of Siskiyou for forty years; starting as a carpenter and cabinet maker. His title was Senior Carpenter, but that was changed to Facilities Technician because of his expertise in electrical, plumbing and mechanical in addition to carpentry. Any of the Siskiyou County buildings that existed during his time with the county still benefit from his craftsmanship. He fell while working for the County on the "bug station" in Dorris, California, damaging his knees; those injuries were to limit his ability to do what he enjoyed later in life. In addition to being proud to have been of service to his beloved Siskiyou County as an employee, he was very happy and proud to be a member of the Yreka Volunteer Fire Department. He served with his firemen brothers for 25 years; eight of those years was as their Chief. As the years passed, it meant a great deal to him when one of them would still address him as "Chief". Dick was a long-time member of the Yreka Elks Club. He also enjoyed bowling and bowled in leagues for many years. As he did in every facet of his life - he would strive to be the best he could be. He really enjoyed the interaction with all of the other bowlers. Dick could design and build anything he put his mind to; whether it be made of wood, steel, brick or any other type of material. He loved the outdoors and any activity associated with the woods, streams, ocean or lakes. He was an excellent fisherman and especially enjoyed fishing for bass. He hunted for years and was especially pleased when, after applying for 30 years, he was chosen for an antelope tag. He was successful and got his animal on the last day of the season in August, 1995. Dick's favorite "hang out" was Don's Sporting Goods for morning coffee (where his antelope trophy head is still hanging); he occupied a stool there for many years and enjoyed playing "Liar's Dice" to determine who would pay for the coffee for those involved in the game. He is going to be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. Predeceasing him were his parents, his brother Ed, his sister June, his wife Pauline, step-son Mike Silva and nephew Tim Shipman. Surviving him are his wife and partner for 21 years, Karen; his sister, Lena Truttman; his daughter Connie Jarin in McMinnville, Oregon; his son Greg (Selena) Shipman of Yreka; grandsons Rick (Brandi) Shipman of Gresham, Oregon and Keygen Shipman of Yreka; step-children Tina Silva, Darren Silva, Jeff Capps and Kristi Capps; nephews, Allen Shipman, Tracy Shipman and Gary Truttman, niece Garnet Hilton; several step-grandchildren and 5 step great grandchildren. In accordance with Dick's wishes, there will not be a formal service. He had indicated, however, that a "party" would be acceptable. So, there will be a Celebration of his life on January 21st 2017 at 1 PM at the Elk's Club, Yreka, CA. If someone wishes to honor him by a donation - two of his favorite causes were the Rescue Ranch, P.O. Box 1192, Yreka, CA 96097 and the NRA, 11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030; or to any organization of the donor's choice.

Richard "Dick" Lee Shipman

August 19, 1931 - December 14, 2016