William F. Shipp

Born on December 16, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, Bill lived a life marked by dedication, service, and an unwavering commitment to family and faith. He graduated from Leyden Township High School before serving his country with honor in the U.S. Army during World War II. As a machine gunner and Technical Sergeant stationed in Europe, he played a vital role in the war effort until his honorable discharge. He later shared his wartime experiences through the Veterans History Project at the Niles Public Library, where his recorded interview remains preserved on the Library of Congress website. One of the most meaningful moments of his later years was participating in an Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C., a tribute to his service arranged by his daughter, Judy.

Following his military service, Bill pursued higher education at the University of Illinois John Marshall Law School before embarking on a long and dedicated career as a claims supervisor at Bankers Life in Chicago. His strong work ethic and integrity left a lasting impact on colleagues and friends.

Bill was a devoted husband to Martha "Marty" Shipp until her passing in 2016. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure. They shared a passion for travel and cruising, exploring destinations across the United States and Europe as well as Australia, China and Japan. Their many voyages included Caribbean getaways and an unforgettable Alaskan cruise – experiences that brought them great joy. When they did their travel planning, it was always with the motto, “Let’s go somewhere we’ve never been before!”

A man of deep faith, Bill was a longtime member of Our Lady of Ransom Catholic Church in Park Ridge, where parishioners remember his participation in Mass as a Lector who brought the scriptures to life. When Marty required assistance later in life, he began attending Christ Church UCC in Des Plaines alongside her. The Christ Church community embraced them both with warmth and provided comfort to Bill and his family after Marty's passing.

Bill was also an active member of the Niles All American Speakers Toastmasters Club of Toastmasters International, where he honed his public speaking skills and enjoyed camaraderie with fellow members. His talent for communication earned him numerous awards, reflecting his eloquence and leadership.

Above all else, Bill cherished his family. He is survived by his children: Gwen Chandler (Ronald), Glenn Shipp (Catherine), and Judy Shipp; step-grandson Justin Chandler, grandchildren Megan Shipp (Joshua Kelso), and Peter Shipp (Mary Ann Schneider); great-grandchildren Max Kelso and Morrigan Kelso; and step-great-granddaughters Ariana and Lucille Kelso. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marty; parents Catherine and Arthur Shipp; brother Thomas Shipp (Rose); and sisters Kathleen Clark and Rita Shipp.

In his later years, Bill faced the challenges of dementia with resilience and grace. Following Marty's passing, Bill was lovingly cared for by his granddaughter Megan. He spent his final years at Elevate Care in Riverwoods, where he received compassionate care from both the staff and his devoted family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner St., Des Plaines, Illinois. A funeral service will take place on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Christ Church UCC, 1492 Henry Ave., Des Plaines, Illinois. Refreshments will be served immediately following the service in Wobbe Hall.

Donations in Bill’s honor may be made to Honor Flight Chicago (www.honorflightchicago.org)

Bill's legacy is one of love, dedication, faithfulness, and patriotism—qualities that will continue to inspire those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.