Irakli (Ira) Pipia

Born on April 24, 1968, in Tbilisi, Georgia, Ira was the beloved son of the late George Pipia and Valentina (Stebeneva) Pipia. He is survived by his devoted mother, Valentina; his wife, Irina Pipia; his cherished sons, Daniel and Archil Pipia; and his brother, George Pipia.

Ira graduated from the University of Tbilisi with a degree in business. He later moved to the United States, where he made his home in Michigan. It was there that he met his former wife, Aliya Pipia, with whom he shared the greatest joys of his life—his sons.

Ira embraced life fully and passionately. He loved good food, good music, and good wine. A proud Georgian, he never stopped cherishing his homeland, its culture, and its language. His roots remained a deep part of him, no matter where he lived.

He had a radiant sense of humor that could lift the mood of any room, and his kindness touched everyone he met. He loved soccer, movies, music, and cooking, often sharing these joys with friends and family. He especially had a fondness for Classic Hollywood and sci-fi movies.

His curious mind was always reaching for more—constantly reading, learning, and pondering the mysteries of the universe.

Every night, Ira would look up at the stars with wonder. We believe now, with all our hearts, that his soul is among them—shining down on us from above.

But above all, Ira loved his children. Daniel and Archil were the light of his life, and he was endlessly proud to be their father. His heart was soft and kind—perhaps too soft for this world—and though it gave out too soon, the love he gave remains with us.

Ira will be laid to rest beside his father in his beloved Georgia, the land that shaped him and that he carried in his heart wherever he went.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he brightened.

We kindly ask that you respect the privacy of the grieving family during this difficult time.