Donald James SHIPPIT

1940 - 2022

SHIPPIT, Donald James: February 11, 1940 - March 11, 2022 It is with heavy hearts that the family of long-time Oliver resident Don Shippit announce his passing on Friday March 11, 2022, at South Okanagan General Hospital. Don is predeceased by his beloved wife Lil in March of 2018, parents John and Violet Shippit, and brother Billy. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, sons Dean, Glen (Dawn), and daughter Deanna (Steve) Nemeth, as well as his grandchildren John (Jessica), Amy (Shawn), Tyler, Ben, Dillon, Devon, Braedon and great-grandchildren Audrey and Elliott. He will also be cherished and remembered by all his family, including his in-laws Pam Blacklock, Kathy and Gerald MacDonald, Donna and Kirby Balfour, his nieces and nephews, as well as the extended Shippit and Chobotar families. Don was born on February 11, 1940, on a farm in the town of Osoyoos. He grew up locally farming ground crop, livestock and eventually tree fruits with his family. After graduation from SOHS in Oliver in 1962, Don ventured to Vancouver where he spent several years at the head office of Standard Oil. He moved back to Oliver to marry his sweetheart, Lillian Davis and raise his family. Don had a strong work ethic, high standards, and took pride in his many business endeavors. In the late 1960's, he purchased and ran his orchard just south of Road 18, from there he also owned and operated several businesses through the years including, Home Oil in Osoyoos, Link hardware in Oliver and truck delivery services with, NOCA Dairy, Dairyland and Weston Breads. Don was also an active member of his community. He earned a Life Membership to the Oliver Kinsmen's Club, and later joined the Oliver Lion's Club where he was a treasurer and president during his years of service. Don had a love of music and was an accomplished guitarist and violinist in his younger years. He had the pleasure of being part of a violin quartet that would play recitals on the big stage during his time in Vancouver. He always enjoyed the great outdoors, especially his camping days with Lil in their motorhome Winnie during their retirement together. After Lil's passing, Don's site at Jolly Lake became a favorite place of his, where he shared many laughs with his best friend Lew. Don was a devoted family man. They were his pride and joy. His favorite place was sitting around the table with loved ones enjoying his favorite foods from his Ukrainian heritage. He loved and cherished all gatherings that brought everyone together, his friends included. Don was a people person who touched many lives through the years. His kind heart, jovial personality, and beautiful smile will be deeply missed by all. Don was a charitable man and gave to many organizations through the years. Donations are gratefully accepted to any charity of one's choice. A celebration of life will be held at the Oliver Alliance Church on Saturday April 9th at 1:00 pm, followed by a reception. Urn interment and committal will follow at the Oliver Municipal Cemetery. Condolences and tributes may be left for the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com