Joseph D. Shipman

Joseph D. Shipman, a deeply cherished husband, father, son, and friend, passed away on March 10, 2026, in his beloved hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. Born on March 24, 1978, Joseph brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. His early years were spent in St. Louis, where he immersed himself in the community and built a life full of love and memories.

Joseph graduated from Francis Howell North High School in 1996. After high school, Joe worked his way up the ladder and became a manager at McDonald's, working there for over 10 years. While working there, he met some amazing people who would go on to become lifelong friends. Joe then went on to further his education at Sanford Brown, where he earned an Associate's degree. His dedication to his work as a Respiratory Therapist began to flourish at Christian Northeast, later taking him to Barnes St. Peters and Progress West. Joseph was well-respected and admired by his coworkers, many of whom became friends through their shared passion for patient care. He found fulfillment in helping others breathe a little easier, always embodying the qualities of reliability and compassion.

To describe Joseph is to speak of a man characterized by love, gentleness, and an unwavering strength. He was a devoted husband to Hali Shipman and an incredible father to his children: Blaize, JoJo, and Jett. His family was his pride and joy, and he dedicated his life to nurturing and supporting them in every endeavor. Joseph's personality shone bright; he was dependable and trustworthy, a loving presence in their lives, and someone who could always be counted on during difficult times.

Joseph's passions extended beyond his career. He found great enjoyment in sports – particularly hockey, baseball, and boxing – as well as boating, fishing, working out, hiking, and rollerblading. Those who knew him were often treated to his silly side, a testament to his ability to bring laughter into any situation. His love for Jesus was a guiding light in his life, grounding him in values that resonated with those around him. Joe would even bless his patients with small Jesus figurines that he would leave behind in their rooms. One of Joe's proudest moments was when he and his son, Blaize, were baptized last June. Joe was a dedicated member of The Crossing Church (Mid Rivers), making sure he attended services every chance he got, even through his illness.  

Joseph is survived by his loving wife Hali Shipman; his beloved children Blaize, JoJo, and Jett; his devoted parents, Linda and Gary Shipman; his aunt Robyn Rothschild; his parent-in-laws Cynthia and Kevin Powers; his father-in-law Hadley Holt II; brother-in-law Hadley Holt III; nephew Hadley Holt IV; niece Aurora Holt; his beloved grandma Marge Long; and countless other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents: Mildred and Donald Shipman, Eleanor and Joseph Redford; aunt and uncle Marla Jean and Lyle Griep, his aunt Michele Cain; his cousin Erica Harter; and his grandparent Dennis Long. He also mourned the loss of his dearest friend Dan Olsen, whose absence will forever be felt.

Joseph D. Shipman's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the love he so freely gave. May his memory inspire others to be loving, gentle, and dependable, just as he was.