David Gordon Kipp

Born on August 8, 1945, in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, to David and Lydia Kipp, Dave graduated from Granite Falls High School before earning associate degrees in Electronics from Dunwoody Institute and Computer Programming from Brown Institute, both in Minneapolis. His education led to a career in healthcare technology, including work in pacemaker technology with Medtronic and on immunization record databases for the City of St. Paul, Minnesota.

David was a Vietnam combat veteran who served with the U.S. Army's 196th Light Infantry Brigade from 1968 to 1969. While serving in Vietnam, he taught himself to play the guitar and became an accomplished musician. He shared his love of Christian music by playing guitar on his church's worship team for many years. For Dave, music was an expression of his faith. He especially enjoyed gospel and classical music and, in his later years, spent countless hours watching and listening to his favorite bands and orchestras on YouTube.

Dave married Dorcas Fredrickson in 1974, and together they made their home in Fridley, Minnesota, until relocating to Colorado in 2004.

Dave loved to travel and was always ready for another road trip. He studied maps and seemed to know the best route to almost any destination. He especially enjoyed visiting America's national parks, taking his family hiking, biking, and camping, and exploring the country's historic sites. An avid reader of American history, he found great satisfaction in visiting the places he had read about.

Of all the blessings in his life, his children were his greatest pride and joy. Whether watching football, wrestling on the living room floor, sharing a big pizza, taking long bike rides, or, as they grew older, helping with projects around their homes, cutting down trees, or splitting firewood, Dave treasured every moment spent with Daniel and Judson. His grandchildren were the delight of his later years. He never missed an opportunity to spoil them just enough, and they always knew Grandpa's door—and his heart—were open.

Those who knew Dave will remember his quiet faith, gentle spirit, love of music, adventurous nature, and unwavering devotion to his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Dorcas; his sons, Daniel (Kristin) and Judson (Alyssa); and his five cherished grandchildren, Reagan, Kaylee, Micah, Naomi, and Levi. He is also survived by one brother and two sisters.

A private interment will be held at Ft. Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or to a charitable organization of your choice.