Monte Hipes

Monte Lee Hipes of Fairmount - known affectionately as "Pops" - entered eternal rest on May 10, 2025; the cherished father, grandfather, son, and brother, was 70 years old.
Monte was born to Odell Patton and Clara Mae Sprong in Marion on July 29, 1954. He would soon be adopted by his loving parents, Kenneth and Esther Hipes, and would go on to grow up in Elwood, graduating from Wendell L. Wilkie High School in 1972. Monte was proud of his long career as a truck driver, and was among the most skilled and dedicated drivers in the business.
Possessing a larger-than-life quality, Monte's person and presence were both unique and affecting. He was a joyful individual who approached life with irrepressible positivity, whether at work or at play. He spent as much time as he could outdoors, typically out on the water fishing or boating. When he was inside, Monte liked to relax with a cup of coffee and a good book, especially the works of Louis Lamour. Along with western novels, he also enjoyed western films, and he was the consummate Trekkie. Other passions included eating, NASCAR, napping, and the music of Santana.
In spite of a somewhat stormy relationship with computers, Monte was a longtime fan of several PC games, particularly "Doom." He also invested many hours playing poker on his tablet, though he'd be the first to admit that he wasn't very good. But where he may have lacked technologically, Monte more than made up for it in dexterity. Always ready to take on a new project, he loved to work with his hands, and he was an amazing mechanic.
Perhaps what Monte will be remembered for most is a heart full of love and laughter. Ever the prankster, he found humor in even the little things, and he wanted to spread this cheer to everyone around him. He adored his family, and he lived for the special moments they made together. Though he will be greatly missed, Monte's memory is one that will last, treasured for all time by his loved ones.
Monte is survived by his children: Mary Kay (Ben) Staggs, Kenneth Hipes, Kristopher Hipes, Lee (Cassie Apple) Hipes, and Brendan Hipes. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Luther, Madelyn, Marianna, Matthew; his mother, Esther; his brothers, David Patton, Greg Glendenning, and Gary (Brenda) Hipes; several nieces and nephews; and special friends Dennis Jackson, and Kristie and Mike Stanley.
Along with his birth parents, Monte was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth.
Monte's services will be held at Dunnichay Funeral Home in Elwood, Indiana, this Thursday, May 15, 2025. Calling hours are schedule for 11:00am to 1:00pm, with the funeral ceremony beginning at 1:00pm. Immediately after the funeral, Monte is to be interred at Knox Chapel Cemetery near Fairmount following a brief committal service. Pete McGuire will officiate the services.
Dunnichay Funeral Home and the family welcome all who knew Monte to celebrate his life by sharing their memories and photos on his Remember Page at www.dunnichayfuneralhome.com