Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
James Shipman Obituary
James Johnston Shipman Jr., "Jay", died unexpectedly on Thursday, January 2, 2014. He was born October 23, 1950 in Neenah, son of the late James J. and Jane (Sensenbrenner) Shipman.
Jay graduated from St. Norbert's College with a History Degree and then received his Masters in Special Education from UW-Oshkosh. He married Jane Renner on June 28, 1980.
Jay taught for 30 years in the Neenah Joint School District, 15 years in Special Education and then 15 years teaching eighth grade Civics. He was a "father figure" to many.
Jay loved to help his family and friends. Upon retirement, Jay and Jane took many trips often travelling with Dobber. Some of Jay's happiest moments were relaxing at home while looking at the lake with Jane and Boone.
Jay enjoyed having dinner with friends, playing tennis with his buddies, and spending time with his kids and family.
Survivors include his wife, Jane; two children: John (Emily) Shipman, Ashley Shipman; a sister, Leslie Vinson; three brothers-in-law: John Grosshuesch, Jack (Barbara) Renner, Jim (Sally) Renner; his father and mother-in-law, Jack and Lillian Renner; and his nieces and nephews: Felicia Wallace, Dan Wallace, John (Catherine) McLandress, Andrew (Michelle) McLandress and Jackson (Jori) Renner.
Jay was preceded in death by his sister, Jaime Grosshuesch.
A Memorial Service will be held at 5:00 PM on Monday, January 6, 2014, at the First Presbyterian Church, 200 Church St., in Neenah, with The Rev. Richard Moore officiating. The visitation will be held at the church from 3:00 PM until the hour of service. Coffee and desserts to follow in the fellowship hall. Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established for Shattuck Middle School students in need.
Westgor Funeral Home
205 W. Doty Ave.
Neenah 722-7151
Online condolences:
www.westgorfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Shipman
Charlie Blaney
December 29, 2024
Time marches on but the shared memories stand still.
Gone but unforgettable, glad to have known Jay. Think of him often
Monica Schoen
December 28, 2022
It was nice to see Jay in my email today! It's still hard to believe he is not with us anymore. Jay was such a kind man and I loved how he made people laugh with his dry sense of humor!
Nancy Thurner Wall
December 28, 2022
Jay was such a kind man always without exception. I attended Neenah High School with him. This morning, opening this up, was a good reminder of his gentle soul. Thank you.
Bob Boucher
July 18, 2014
Jay was a great guy. We became friends my senior year at St Norberts. Over spring-break in 1973 we drove to Key West in Jay's Porsche. It was a very hot car and on the way down he taught me how to drive a performance sport car. I do not think I have ever had as much fun driving since. It was before radar… and we had the pedal to the metal all the way down and back ! . We never got a ticket. In Key West we swam, played one-on-one basketball and had a great time. One night a guy came into the little bar we were in, plugged in a guitar and started playing. We got up and started dancing with a couple of girls, the music created an instant party. Afterwards I asked one of the girls who's the guitarist ? They said "oh a local guy, Jimmy Buffet". Jay was generous, smart and funny. Adios good buddy and my sincere condolences to his family.
Martin Joseph Blonde
January 18, 2014
Dear Neighbor: We were shocked when our mail man Peter said Jay had died to our disabled son-in-law about your husband Jay. Jay was so very kind to me during our 12 years moving in from North Lake and losing my wife ( a special ed teacher) and I remarried with Molly and her sister Rosemary McCarville living with us till she died. May God help you through these years to come. The wounds with time heal but not the after effects. Marty Blonde -Past shop teacher.
Charles Blaney
January 10, 2014
I was just thinking of Jay the other day as the Packers were showing signs of life. He was a good friend who I saw to infrequently. I have some wonderful memories of him from the college days and beyond. A funny,smart, kindhearted, and loving man who will be missed by all those whose life he touched. I wish his family strength in dealing with their sudden loss. I loved Jay
Claudia Tonge (Meyer)
January 8, 2014
Dear Jane and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear of Jay's passing. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
John McKellips
January 7, 2014
Jay was truly one of the nicest guys I've ever known. My heart aches for Jane, his family and friends.
Sonja St John
January 6, 2014
Mr Shipman, Thank you for sharing your wisdom and expertise in the classroom, you made my 8th grade experience memorable. You have class and style. a calm kindness you showed will not be forgotten. Keep that tennis ball in play, we will miss you on the earthly side.
Jay circa 1975.
John Laumer
January 6, 2014
Dean
January 6, 2014
A wonderful, fun and caring person!!!
Nancy Freier
January 6, 2014
I best remember Jay when we were kids in grade school and the wonderful little parties he had at his house and at his Grandmother's house near Neenah's Point. I didn't know Jay real well after High School, but whenever I saw him, he was always ready with a smile and a hi. I learned from his obituary that our birthdays are a day apart, and we were likely in Theda Clark Hospital at the same time. Maybe that's where this special feeling of friendship I have for Jay comes from.
Bless you on your journey, and my heartfelt condolences to Jane and the rest of his family.
Nancy Angermeyer
January 6, 2014
We never know when it will be our last day and Jay was fortunate to not have known; he rested with a happy heart. Those of you who had him as a teacher are very lucky and those of us who knew him in his younger crazy years and on into adulthood will carry his memory. He did not have a selfish bone in his body and was the most sincere caring listener. His service today will help many and bring many of you together to share many wonderful stories of Jay. The past tense is ever so bitter.
George (BJ) Dahl
January 6, 2014
Mr. Shipman was my hero, the world has lost one of the truly great men that have blessed us in our lives. I was a student of his in the early 80's and I have grown to be a better man by his being a part of my life. I will never forget the field trip we took to his home to grill out and swim in the lake. As a young boy I can remember thinking how I wanted to be like him. My heart and prayers go out to his wife and children and all the others blessed to have known him. He has touched endless lives in his time on earth and we are all very lucky! Go with god my friend and hold his hand tight. The teachers have a new angel as do all of his students! I love you and pray for you!
Jan Hesson
January 6, 2014
Dearest Jane and Family,
I am shocked and so saddened to hear about Jay. I have fond memories of many competitive sets of tennis in the "old days." I hope each day brings new and added strength and peace to your family.
George (BJ) Dahl
January 6, 2014
Mr. Shipman was a wonderful human and an amazing teacher! I will never forget what he did for me as my teacher and I will miss him greatly. To his wife and kids I know he was a hero just as he was mine. God must have needed a teacher! My heart goes out to all who knew him and loved him as I did. May peace find him and his family!
John Catlin
January 6, 2014
Jane, Deborah and I send our most heart felt sympathy to you and your family at this very difficult time. You are in our prayers and we pray that Jay will have a smooth crossing. God Bless.
Zak Walter
January 5, 2014
Mr. Shipman was truly a beacon in my trip through the Neenah Public Education system, and I learned a lot about myself under his purview. Condolences and well wished to all those affected by his passing.
-Zak
Steve Callahan
January 5, 2014
We're going to miss Jay at the tennis center. He was a very good player and fun to play with.
Leslie Smith-Carlsen
January 5, 2014
God bless you Jane, John and Ashley. My heart aches for you. You all all in my thoughts and prayers. His beautiful soul will live on forever in you.
John Bildahl
January 5, 2014
Even though I haven't seen much of Jay in the last 40 years...I always carry with me the vision of his dignity. Whenever I want to set myself straight, I think of Jay. He has been and always will be with me. Much love to Jane, their children, and extended family.
Jay was an unforgetable friend.
Peace,
John Bildahl
January 5, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful teacher and his love and care for the students he taught was very evident. Our son, Travis, had him and Mr. Shipman made a lasting impression on him and on us. May the peace of our Lord be with you and praying for the memories you have bring you moments of joy as you walk this difficult path. He will be missed!!
Barb and Pat Bergner
Tom Koepke
January 5, 2014
Jane, Ashley and John.....Sincerest condolences on the loss of your husband and father. Although I have seen Jay only on occasion since high school, the memories of many wonderful moments are indelibly etched. I'm certain many share the loss of such a special, witty, kind and unique guy. I feel so lucky to say Jay Shipman was a friend.
Karla Sheehan
January 5, 2014
I did not know Jay well, but I do know he was a good man and a dedicated teacher. He will be missed by many...
Peter Asmuth
January 5, 2014
Dear Jane and Family:
I was very sad to hear about Jay's passing. He and I lived together for 2 years while attending St. Norbert's and he was one of the finest men I'v ever known. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Monica Schoen
January 5, 2014
Dear Jane, John, and Ashley,
My heart is so heavy with the sad and shocking news of the passing of Jay. I worked with him for several years at Shattuck and so loved being around him...such a gentle and compassionate man who genuinely loved his students, family, friends... I especially enjoyed his stories and sense of humor! I will miss him terribly! May God's love as well as the love and support of family and friends be with you during this very difficult time.
Sue & Randy Stadtmueller
January 5, 2014
We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Jay's death. It is hard to accept and comprehend, and yet we know these feelings pale with the loss and grief of you, his dearest and most beloved family. You are all in our thoughts and hearts.
Margie Van Grinsven
January 5, 2014
Dear Jane & Family,
My sympathy to you & your family. I have many fond memories of working together with Jay at Coolidge School.
David Huebner
January 5, 2014
I could make a long list of the things Jay did for me in the fifty years I knew him. I am sure there are many who could do the same. He was the most thoughtful, generous, humble, selfless, and honorable person I have ever known. We could all do our best to honor him by trying to be more like him. I cherish the time we had together. I will miss him terribly.
Barb Robertson
January 5, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. I wish for you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Paul & Mary Myers
January 5, 2014
Dear Shipman family
So sad to hear the news of Jay. Our memories carry us back to the Stoney Bridge stable days. Fun times with our families. Jay will be missed.
Neil & Patti Weber
January 5, 2014
Jane…So sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you now and in the future.
Karen Magolan(Urban)
January 4, 2014
Jane and Family
I am very sorry to hear of your loss.
Paul Nettesheim
January 4, 2014
Jane, John and Ashley,
I am sorry to hear about Jay. He was an incredible teacher/mentor/friend. He was a caring individual who was a role model on how to live life to the fullest everyday. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Melissa Bryant
January 4, 2014
From Seattle WA, I am so very sorry to hear of this sad news. Jane, you and your family are in my thoughts tonight and my mind is flooded with so many wonderful memories. I hope to talk to you soon. With much love, Melissa
Cindy Boehm
January 4, 2014
I am saddened by the news of Jay's death. We were school mates from kindergarten at Washington School. I will always remember him.
Marie and George taft
January 4, 2014
Fond memories
Jillian Otis
January 4, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Shipmans death. My heart is heavy and I pray that your family finds peace. He will never be forgotten. He made an impact on so many people. Thank you Mr. Shipman.
Scott Layman
January 4, 2014
Jay was a mentor to me without intention. As classmates at ST Nubs I had a glimps of what it mean to be class act. One love for ever.
January 4, 2014
Dear Jane and family,
I am so sorry; this is so shocking. Jay was such a mild mannered soul - always polite, to all. His warm spirit, will always be with you.
Take care,
Bonnie Thomas
Jana Nantelle
January 4, 2014
This is so sad to hear. He was an awesome teacher, actually mad it fun. He taught me 16 years ago and I can still remember his stories. My prayers go out to the family.
Shannon Anderson
January 4, 2014
He was one of my favorite teachers. My heart breaks for your family.
Jenny Seiler
January 4, 2014
Mr. Shipman was one of those teachers that you never forget. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
January 4, 2014
Mr. Shipman was one of my favorite teachers at Shattuck. It is a sad day to hear of his passing. Prayers and condolences to his family. In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Nick Mees
January 4, 2014
I am shocked and saddened to hear about Jay's passing. I initially met Jay while student-teaching down the hall from him at Shattuck 11 years ago. He was always kind, mild-mannered, and the type of teacher I'd hope to be in terms of how well he worked with students. His humor always made me smile when I saw him on the tennis courts. He will certainly be missed.
Jen (Stuart) Corcoran
January 4, 2014
Jay went out of his way to make me feel welcome when I was teaching at Shattuck. He had a gift for making people laugh even in uncomfortable circumstances, and he was one of those people that truly listened, remembered, and reciprocated little details about people. I wish his family and friends comfort and strength at this time and always.
Joe Lewis
January 4, 2014
My condolences to his family. Jay was truly a remarkable man and a teacher that truly made a difference in the lives of his students!!!! All one needs to do is read the many testimonials from his former students to get a sense of the man and his amazing ability to touch the lives of others! Heaven has gained a special man and you will be sorely missed!
Nancy Thurner Wall
January 4, 2014
Dear Jane,
You probably don't remember me but I'm Nancy Thurner (Wall). My sister Sue just forwarded this to me (Randy Stadtmueller), and I'm just so shocked and feel terribly sad and lost for you. I remember you (your brother Jack) and Jay very well from High School, Jay was, as most have testified, a gentle soul. Love, light and comfort from your family and friends, I'm certain by all this, will comfort you.
January 4, 2014
I am deeply saddened to hear of this great loss. My heart goes out to the Shipman family.
Teri Landry (former fellow Shattuck teacher)
Marcia and Ray Appel
January 4, 2014
Jane and family, It is hard to believe such a vibrant man is no longer with us. Jay was always a special guy and I have fond memories of him. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Chloe Demerath
January 4, 2014
I am very blessed to have been taught by Mr.Shipman. He was an amazing teacher. Mr.Shipman had an influence on my life and I'm a better person because of him. I am so sorry to hear of this. He will be missed.
Andrew Turner
January 3, 2014
Thank you Mr. Shipman for being such a wonderful teacher and gracious human being. You will be missed but your positive influence on me and hundreds of your students will live on.
Alexandrea Krause
January 3, 2014
I had Mr. Shipman as a teacher nine years ago, and he's still one of the most memorable teachers I had at Shattuck. I still laugh when I think of the stories he used to tell us- one about Jamaica, in particular- and it's fair to say that he will be very missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, wife, and children.
Megan Olson
January 3, 2014
A very wonderful teacher, he will be missed.I'm glad I had the opportunity to be a student of his. Prayers to the family.
Malinda Cook
January 3, 2014
Shattuck had some top tier teachers, not many were better than Mr. Shipman. He will be missed and never forgotten.
Jenna Sakowski
January 3, 2014
Sad day that a wonderful man gone. Mr. Shipman was one of my teachers from 8th grade school...his outlook on life was one that will be missed, such a kind man with a care about each and every one he met.
Tom Johnson
January 3, 2014
Thanks for being a great teacher thoughts and prayers to your family in this difficult time
Jerry & Marilyn Coenen
January 3, 2014
Jane, John, Ashley
Our prayers are with you. We truly enjoyed Jay when we had family get togethers . There is a very special person in heaven.
Love to all of you
Jerry & Marilyn Coenen
January 3, 2014
Jane, John, Ashley,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We so enjoyed Jay when we were together. There is a very special person in Heaven.
Love to all of you
Claudia Martinez-Endter
January 3, 2014
Sending my love and condolences to the family.
Katy Nielsen
January 3, 2014
Mr. Shipman was always my favorite teacher. As a kid in middle school he made me love school and made me believe I could become something important in life. I consider myself lucky to have the chance to have been taught by him. my thoughts and prayed are with his family.
Caelainn Donnellan
January 3, 2014
Mr. Shipman was one of my favorite teachers at Shattuck. Every class was sure to be vibrant, fun, and full of respect for the intelligence of the students, which is a truly incredible thing to have managed in an 8th grade Civics class. My thoughts and prayers to your family.
Cindy Shutt
January 3, 2014
So sad to hear about Jay. I taught with him at Coolidge.and always admired him as a teacher. He always had a kind word and a great sense of humor. Sincere condolences to his family.
Cassie Kottke
January 3, 2014
A great client and friend. I was so very blessed to have had the opportunity to get to know Jay the last several years during our workouts and yoga classes together. His genuine heart and sence of humor will be greatly missed. I feel so blessed that God placed Jay in my life. The sky shines one start brighter tonight, but the world has lost a beautiful soul.
Diane Weyenberg
January 3, 2014
My heart is heavy. I worked with Jay at Coolidge School in Neenah for many years and knew him to be a kind gentle soul to the students and staff he worked with. I also enjoyed his sense of humor and loved listening to Jay talk about his kids and how proud he was of them!! May your loving memories bring you some comfort at this difficult time.
The Gillie Family
January 3, 2014
I first met Mr. Shipman in 2006. It didn't take long to realize he was a very special man. A loving husband and father. His loving personality was contagious. I'll never forget him letting John drive his Posche with my 7 month pregnant wife in the passenger seat. While we talked about politics on the sun porch. You will be missed and it was a true pleasure getting to know you over the years.
Andre Verbrick
January 3, 2014
Mr. Shipman taught me alot about the stock market.For being 13 years old at the time I understood every last bit of what he taught.R.I.P. I will always invest in stocks because of you.
John Pierce
January 3, 2014
I got to know Jay during my college years. He was a pleasure to be around. My thoughts and prayers to all his family and close friends.
sheila hackstock
January 3, 2014
I cant tell you how much mr shipman did for my son in middle school, he helped him through a very difficult time and we will forever be grateful. s. hackstock
David Tanzer
January 3, 2014
Mr. Shipman was one of the best teachers and people I have ever known. Almost 20 years later I still think of him and the classes he taught and realize that I would not be the person I am today without his guidance. Condolences to his family and everyone else that he touched.
Denise Gidlof
January 3, 2014
Our son, Ryan Gidlof , had Mr. Shipman as a history teacher and just loved him. When we , as his parents, met him we could see why. God gave him a special gift to work with the kids and he did it well. Our sympathy to the Shipman family.
January 3, 2014
Our son , Ryan Gidlof, had Mr Shipman for a history teacher and he just loved him. As his parents, we spoke with him and we could see why our son liked him so much. He was so good with the kids. God gave him a special gift which he used well. Our deepest sympathy to the Shipman family.
Brooke Steffanus
January 3, 2014
Mr. Shipman was one of my favorite teachers. He was one of the teachers who influenced me to become a teacher. My thoughts and prayers to your family.
Angela Cochrane
January 3, 2014
I was very lucky to have Mr. Shipman as a teacher. He was an amazing man and will be greatly missed.
Rebecca Day
January 3, 2014
Mr. Shipman was one of my favorite teachers at Shattuck. It is a sad day to hear of his passing. Prayers and condolences to his family.
Marie and George Taft
January 3, 2014
We are very sad to hear this news Jane. Our thoughts are with you.
Corey Maertz
January 3, 2014
Mr. Shipman was a great teacher and will be missed. Thank you for all that you've taught. Thoughts go out to your family.
Daniel Blank
January 3, 2014
I was saddened to hear the news today of Jay's passing. I loved his satiric humor and passion for life. He will be missed.
January 3, 2014
Needless to say, we are shocked to hear about Jay. He was one of the best, and we will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Love and hugs.
Sarah and Hank Mathewson
Lynn Hesson
January 3, 2014
Stunning. Our family's prayers and condolences to be sure. Most of my best memories from the early days all involve Jay. A special guy.
Phil Helby
January 3, 2014
Dear Jane, John & Ashley,
Mary, Susan, Sueby, Sarah and I are so very saddened to hear of Jay's passing and so glad that you have close family around you. We are glad to have known a very special person and wish you all God's blessings in the time to come.
Dolly Henshaw
January 3, 2014
Jane and Family
Jay always had kind words to say or a story to tell when ever I saw him. He will be missed greatly.
John Catlin
January 3, 2014
Jane and Family,
Deborah and I are so sorry about your loss. We have you in our prayers and we wish Jay a safe passage. God Bless.
Terrance Leaman
January 3, 2014
I knew Jay through our tennis group at the Y Tennis Centre in Oshkosh. He was a kind and warm and happy man. I will miss him.
Jeff Hesson
January 3, 2014
It is rare to be able to find a person that touches so many with kindness, and just the strum of a guitar. Jay and Jane shared a true love story. My sadness is still less than gratitude and happiness for having been able to share small moments of Jay's life through the years
Rebecca Shipman
January 3, 2014
Jane, I am very sorry to hear about Jay. He was a very kind, engaging, and generous man. I hope you and your family get the love and support you need during this difficult time. I hope to make it to the service.
Emily Laumer
January 3, 2014
Thinking about your family. Jay was a great man, and he will be missed.
Bill Coan
January 3, 2014
Every generation produces a select few souls whose kindness radiates outward and improves the lives of everyone around them. From his earliest years, Jay was such a soul.
Mary Kadlec
January 3, 2014
Jane, I am so sorry to hear about Jay. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Emily Sensenbrenner
January 2, 2014
Jane,
So shocked to hear about Jay. I am so very sorry that you are having to deal with this. Life just doesn't make sense sometimes. Love to you, John, and Ashley.
Emily Sensenbrenner
Showing 1 - 90 of 90 results
Make a Donation
in James Shipman's name
Memorial Events
for James Shipman
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Shipman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
