Charles Stephen Shipman Obituary

Description: Charles Stephen Shipman Obituary... Our Heartfelt Condolences To His Loved Ones...

Charles "Chuck" Stephen Shipman

February 4, 1935 — May 9, 2026

Obituary

Charles “Chuck” Stephen Shipman of Rocky Ford passed away on May 9, 2026 at age 91. Chuck grew up on a farm in Illinois in a family of 5 boys and 3 girls. Chuck became the man of the house at age 15 as his father passed away and his older brother went into the armed services that year. So began eight decades of hard work; Chuck developed and used his carpentry, mechanical, and numerous other skills wherever he lived. A longtime pastor, Chuck served First Baptist Churches in both Sparland, Illinois and Rocky Ford. After retiring, Chuck and Ruth continued their passion for sharing Jesus by working at a variety of mission projects including interim pastoring, building projects, camp management, and more. Family & nature were important to him. Chuck loved farming, camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, helping rancher friends, and spending time with family, singing around a campfire and telling stories.

In addition to his love for the Lord, Chuck was known for his stories (too long to include here), and his pithy sayings. Some favorites: ”I think God put me together backwards - my nose runs and my feet smell”. “I didn’t know arthritis was a bar hop - just goes from joint to joint.” “Many church people sing ‘Standing on the promises’ when all they are doing is sitting on the premises.” ”Sometimes a pastor’s job is to comfort the afflicted, and afflict the comfortable.” Chuck would say that the best memorial for him would be for people, especially his beloved grandchildren, to know Jesus as their savior and live their lives for Him.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 73 years Ruth Shipman, daughters Donna (Tony) Cannon, Mary Beth (Victor) Scholten, Bonnie (Randy) Grossen, and Michelle (Tim) Austin, all of Rocky Ford, Diana (Roger) Strunk of Normal, IL, son Dustin Shipman of Lamar, CO; and a plethora of much-loved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a great-great-grandchild who are spread across the country from Colorado to Washington to California to Arizona to New Jersey. Chuck was preceded in death by many loved family members including his son Michael, grandchildren Teagan Shipman, Ryder Shipman, and Joshua Cannon.

Bellwood Ustick Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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