Jack Bertram Shipe

Jack Bertram Shipe, 83, of Salem, Va. answered his heavenly call on Friday, July 17, 2009. "Jack", as he was affectionately known to many, had been a man of robust health and energy for the most part of his life. During recent months, his health had declined, but his spirit of strength and determination remained until his call home.
Jack was born in Harrisonburg, Va. on May 15, 1926, the son of the late Joseph W. and Viola Huffman Shipe. He grew up in Staunton and was educated in the local schools until he had barely reached age 17, enlisted in the U. S. Navy. Jack became a PT boater, serving in a number of the campaigns in the South Pacific Theatre of operations. He distinguished himself in combat, receiving the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Completing his education of the GI Bill, Jack attended the University of Richmond. Upon graduation and being recognized for his consistent demonstration of leadership during wartime, he was selected to enter the U. S. Army Officer Training program. He fulfilled duty assignments in postwar Germany with the army of occupation and in Korea. Following him to Germany was the love of his life, the southside beauty from Martinsville, Mary Elizabeth "Lib" Winn. This enduring union would have spanned 60 years coming this July 29th.


Upon the completion of his military obligations, Jack accepted a position as court claims arbitrator with the Allstate Insurance Company in Bridgeport, Conn. He performed his tasks faithfully with a commitment of integrity toward all parties and a professional effectiveness based upon his own distinctive investigative skills. Upon retirement Jack and "Libby" returned to Virginia in 1988. During his retirement, Jack never ceased his desire to serve the needs of others. In his home community, he personally assisted with many of the daily needs of a number of persons who could not do for themselves, fulfilling grocery lists and pharmacy pick-ups and the like. As a retired investigator, he enjoyed a warm supporting friendship with many of the officers of the Salem Police Department and Roanoke County Police Department, completing both of their respective citizen academies. He was a charter member of Eternal Hope Baptist Church in Salem.

Jack is survived by his wife, Lib; son and daughter-in-law, William A. and Nancy Shipe, of Petersburg, Va.; grandchildren, Kellie, William, Allen and Jason; and two great-grandchildren; also a number of sisters and brothers-in-law, to include Ruth Blackard, Sue and Paul Nickelston, Margaret Kellam, Ann Winn, J. M. Winn and D. Winn.

There is no doubt, this was a man of the "greatest generation." They can not be replaced, but they will forever serve as role models for generations of men and women to follow; to love The Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ; to love their spouses and families with intensity; and serve their beloved nation.


A private service will be conducted by pastor J. David Rorer. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or Eternal Hope Baptist Church, 424 West 4th St., Salem, Va. 24153. Arrangements are being handled by Lotz Funeral Home, Salem.