Thomas Bert Shipp

Thomas “Tom” Shipp, beloved father, died on May 22, 2026, at the age of 75 in Lafayette, Indiana.

Born August 7, 1950, in Waterloo, Iowa, to the late Charles and Edith Shipp. The youngest of six children, he grew up in Lafayette and graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School. He was a fiercely competitive baseball and basketball player and fondly recalled his time as a member of the Broncho basketball team led by Coach Joe Heath.

His competitive nature and athleticism gave him the edge when he began coaching his kids in their respective sports. Later as a spectator, he was also their biggest fan.

Tom was a hardworking salesman and spent a majority of his career with Sysco and Fielder’s Choice. After suffering from several strokes, he left the work force in 2014.

Tom was very social and loved getting together with his friends at Sgt. Preston’s before and after Purdue games. He also loved catching live music on the Preston’s patio or the Knickerbocker. Later, when he was unable to get out, he treasured the phone calls and visits from friends near and far. He was a devoted fan of the Boilermakers and Atlanta Braves. He was always happy to cheer them on from his chair, but he never turned down a chance to see them play live.

He is survived by his children Kate Shipp, Elizabeth Shipp Wright, Bill Shipp, and Mary Shipp; and grandchildren Elijah and Sara Gick.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, David, John, Dick, Jerry, and Mary Alice.

A celebration of life will be held later this summer in Lafayette, Indiana on a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the local animal shelter.