R Dale Shipp

Robert Shipp (or Dale as he was known by his friends, family, and colleagues) was to most a seemingly quiet, unassuming soul that loved delicious food from all over the world, adventuring video games, and a good nap. Born in Jefferson City, Missouri to Clarice Bartlett and Robert Fairfax Shipp, his family eventually moved to Florida where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Gail Murphy. In the 65 years that followed, Dale made quite a life for himself.

After graduating from High School in Florida, he enlisted in the US Army and obtained both his Undergraduate and Masters degrees in Mathematics from Carnegie Tech (now known as Carnegie Mellon University). He continued to the University of Wisconsin (Go Badgers!) where he completed his PhD in Mathematics. Dr. R. Dale Shipp eventually earned the rank of Captain and served in the US Army Military Intelligence assigned to the National Security Agency, and after fulfilling his commitment to the Army, he continued as a civilian employee until his retirement in 1995. He earned many commendations and awards during his employment and was highly regarded in his field of Cryptology.

Dale's employment with the NSA took him all over the world, including a three-year stint in England (with two very small children!). He was fond of pencil puzzles, strategy games, and basically anything that used his problem-solving skills. He was an enthusiastic home chef and much of his retirement was spent meeting new friends and cooking for each other.

But the thing he was most proud of was his family. He would talk your ear off about his children and their adventures in life. He served as a father figure to many and was always around to lend a helping hand. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Gail Murphy Shipp, his son, Bryan Shipp (and his wife, Nancy Shipp), daughter, Catherine Bradford, and his three grandchildren, Cassandra, Alice, and Zachary. He is also survived by his bonus daughter, Audrey Barcroft Owens, her husband, and their two girls.

Receiving of Friends will take place at Witzke Funeral Homes Inc., 5555 Twin Knolls Road, Columbia, MD 20145, on Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 1 to 2 p.m. where a Celebration of his Life will follow at 2 p.m. There will also be repass following the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite charity in Dale's honor.