William Joe Shipley's Obituary
William Joe Shipley, 70, of Chanute passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 4, 2024, at Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center. Joe was born on December 8, 1953, in Glendale, California, the son of Will and Betty Lee (Drake) Shipley.
Joe grew up in California and graduated from high school in 1972. After high school, Joe would meet the love of his life Lisa Robin Reffett, and they would marry in 1978. Not long after getting married, Joe and Robin would follow Joe’s parents to Kansas, where they would settle in Chanute.
Joe worked for KDOT for many years as a road and bridge supervisor. Away from work, Joe loved watching NASCAR on television and in person, doing wood work, and serving on the American Honor Legion Honor Guard.
Joe is greatly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Joe is survived by his wife Robin Shipley of Chanute, KS, his two children: Gary Shipley of Chanute, KS and Amber Shipley of Chanute, KS, his sister Janet Maher of Chanute, KS, sister-in-law Joni Shipley of Brush Prairie, Washington, three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents Will and Betty and his brother Gene Shipley.
Joe requested that his body be donated to science, and a celebration of life service will be held at a later date at the American Legion in Chanute. Online condolences may be left at: www.countrysidefh.com. Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 101 N. Highland, Chanute, Kansas 66720.
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