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BORN
1951
DIED
2025
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James Lippert Obituary
A proud Navy veteran, Jim carried his sense of duty and care into every corner of his life. For nearly three decades, he could be found at the heart of the Mount Vernon School District-first as a parent volunteer in his son's classrooms and later as a cherished crossing guard and recess supervisor. He was a fantastic para educator who frequently mentored students throughout his many years in the district. With his colorful hats, painted beard, and booming laugh, Jim made every child feel seen, safe, and celebrated. His passion for helping kids extended far beyond the schoolyard; he served as Scoutmaster for Troop 1, volunteered with Safe Kids, and gave countless hours to the Elks Club.
Jim was also known for his love of photography, his devotion to the Seattle Mariners and Seahawks, and his role as the unofficial "Mariners Santa." Whether cheering from the stands or donning a Santa suit, he spread joy wherever he went.
Above all, Jim lived by his mantra: *"making a difference in the lives of others."* He always had a smile, a kind word, or a gift to share. To many in Skagit Valley, he wasn't just a neighbor-he was Santa Claus himself, carrying the spirit of generosity and joy into every interaction.
Jim is survived by his children, AJ Lippert and his wife Lindsey with their daughters Olive and Hazel; Dustin Lippert and his wife Amanda with their children Lola and Logen; and his sister, Cyndy Lippert. His family-and the countless children and friends he impacted-will carry forward his legacy of kindness.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held at Radius Church in Mount Vernon on October 11, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. The service is open to all, and casual dress is encouraged in honor of Jim's playful spirit. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jim's name to https://forgottenchildrensfund.org continuing his lifelong mission of giving to others.
Please share your stories of Jim and sign the online guest register at www.hawthornefh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for James Lippert
Funeral services provided by:
Hawthorne Funeral Home - Mount Vernon1825 E. College Way PO Box 398, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Memories and Condolences
for James Lippert
Sponsored by Hawthorne Funeral Home - Mount Vernon.
8 Entries
Renee
September 29, 2025
Jim was an amazing person inside and out and he will be missed a ton.
Johnson Reva
September 19, 2025
Jim was an inspiration every day for me.His positive energy was always needed.We will miss him every day.
Jessica Armey
September 19, 2025
You were an angel here on Earth who earned your wings! You live on in my heart Forever! Love you! ~ Sunshine
Cindy Gerrior
September 18, 2025
I have known Jim for over 40 years, he was the most kind, generous man with always a positive upbeat attitude. I have had the good fortune of seeing him every day because I have Hansens furniture, where he was on the corner of division and wall street, as I would drive through the intersection he always waved and when I got out of my car, he would holler good morning, Cindy. For years when my husband was alive, Jim brought in match box cars to my husband, they would talk about cars and other things, but I had about 300 of those cars that I donated to the boys and girls club. I am really going to miss him; the corner is not the same. When he was Santa over the holidays, he did have that magic twinkle in his eye. He had shown me his Santa suit that he had made, and I swear it came from the man himself, the kids loved him, and I am sure they are going to miss him, we all will.
Kathy Green
September 18, 2025
Jim was such a legend in the Skagit Valley. He was a long time staff member of Washington Elementary where I knew him and the stalwart crossing guard where he waved to every single vehicle that went by. He safely crossed 1000's of children across a very busy street for years. All the students loved him. He made everyone laugh, smile, and and feel welcomed at school. Of course there was his coveted, decades long (secret) role as Santa Claus where he really sparkled. He was so amazing with children of every background and was a mainstay in hundreds of families lives at Christmas. He gave so much to our community. He was an example of unbridled kindness and generosity of his giving spirit. I pass the corner several times a day where he crossed all those children. It's hard to drive by there now and think I will never see him there again. He was a really good human. The Skagit Valley was so fortunate to have him in our community. He was a real gift.
garrett evans
September 17, 2025
Jim has been my familys santa since i was born 16 years ago, Thank you for everything Mr lippert.
September 16, 2025
10 years ago I was taking chemo treatment and my spirits were always lifted by his wonderful wave as I turned the corner on McLean Rd onto Westside Bridge to head for my treatment. Bless him I never forgot that act of kindness.
Lark Oestreich
September 16, 2025
In loving memory of a wonderful friend. I will love you and miss you always. God bless.
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