Jeff Tipp

Jeff Tipp, beloved husband, father, teacher, builder, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, with his wife and son at his side. He was 78.

Born May 29, 1947, in Seattle, Washington, Jeff was known for his kindness, humility, and spiritual wisdom. Over the course of his life, he followed many callings — as a chef, craftsman, Zen teacher, and psychotherapist — and in each, he touched lives with generosity and clarity.

Jeff began his career as a chef, cooking at the 1973 Summer Olympics. His spiritual path deepened in the mid-1970s, when he met Zen Master Seung Sahn and helped establish the Blue Heron Zen Community in Seattle. In 2006, he became its first authorized teacher, receiving Inka from Zen Master Ji Bong. For decades, Jeff taught meditation and Zen in Seattle and Los Angeles, guiding hundreds of students.

Alongside his teaching, Jeff was a skilled builder and woodworker. For twenty years he designed and built custom homes on Vashon Island and crafted fine furniture and cabinetry, much of which he donated to Buddhist centers.  He raised his son, Nicholas on Vashon Island with his first wife, Francie Allen. He also contributed to Tara Mandala Buddhist Center in Colorado, building the first retreat cabin and staff housing.

In his late 50s, Jeff began a second career as a licensed Psychotherapist, bringing warmth and insight to his work with clients.

In 2006, he met Roberta, and they were happily married in 2009.  Together they taught workshops on “Relationship as a Spiritual Path,” co-led couples therapy sessions and shared a love of adventure and travel.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Roberta Godbe-Tipp; his son, Nicholas Tipp; his sister, Deborah Hauck; his extended family and his granddaughter, Yael Amia Godbe.