Sheila Elizabeth Zipse

Born in Waurika, Oklahoma, Sheila was the daughter of the late Alease C. Dawson and William S. Dawson. She grew up with a strong faith and a deep love of learning, which guided her throughout her life.

A proud graduate of Grand Junction High School, Class of 1960, Sheila continued her education at Loretto Heights College in Denver, Colorado, receiving her undergraduate degree. During her time there, she also joined the convent of the Sisters of Loretto, where her commitment to faith and service deepened. She obtained a Master’s degree from Western State University.

Sheila went on to dedicate over 30 years to teaching, where she shared her passion for English and Literature with generations of students. Among her favorite topics to teach and discuss were the writings of Anne Frank and Mark Twain, whose stories of courage, resilience, and perseverance she used to inspire her students. Teaching was not just her profession but her calling, and her impact remains in the lives of the countless young people she guided.

On June 21, 1979, Sheila married the love of her life, Mark A. Zipse, with whom she built a home filled with devotion and joy. Together they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children, Amy (Vince), Kirk (Jen), and Elizabeth (Kip). Her family was the center of her life, and she often said her greatest pride and joy was being a grandmother. Her beloved grandchildren—Miranda, Elizabeth, Emily, Vincent, Wyatt, and Frances—were, as she often reminded them, her lasting legacy.

Sheila is survived by her husband, Mark, her children and their spouses, her grandchildren, and her siblings Portia and Debbie. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Pat.

Her legacy is not only found in her children and grandchildren but also through the many teachers she mentored, the love of learning she instilled in others, and the many minds she inspired in the classroom. She will also be remembered for the joy she found in life’s simple pleasures—especially enjoying a good Manhattan by the river in Lake City with family and friends.

A mass of Christian Burial is being held Monday, August 25 at 11 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 230 North 3rd St., Grand Junction, Colorado 81501. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Grand Junction Catholic Outreach or Holy Family Catholic School.