Duane Gene Shipman

Duane was born in Oklahoma City on August 29th, 1942 to Garland and Faye Shipman. He passed from this life in Norman, OK on March 31st, 2025. Independent and strong-willed from birth, he was the youngest of four, following Carol, Barbara, and Gordon. He soon began making his own way and never stopped.

Duane served in the US Army and went to Vietnam in 1968/69. He was proud of his time in the military. Blessed with a strong and inventive mechanical mind, he was driven to 'be his own boss' and was thus self-employed the majority of his life. Moving from Oklahoma City to Edmond in 1977, he bought what was to become the 'Shop' on a handshake in 1980 and started the first of several businesses there. For more than forty years friends, employees, tenants, refuge-seekers, cars, boats, motorcycles, equipment, toys, Bible class tables, tools, and more all came and went as Duane used his talents to provide for family and to serve others.

He valued hard work and enjoyed going to the lake. He liked rough jobs and smooth water. He did things that hadn't been done and was particularly motivated by what supposedly couldn't be done. Never one for the spotlight, his way was to lead by example.

On his sister's recommendation, he introduced himself to Cathy Dover at Putnam City Church of Christ in 1969. On their second date his boat ran out of gas. They were married on June 5th, 1970 and for the next 54 years were devoted partners to each other. She brought him light and love that he was forever thankful for. She stood by him always and he adored her. They opened their hearts and home to many.

Pop, Dad, Ship, 'wayne, GranPop, Duane was known for his strength, generosity, and resilience. He will be missed by many.

Duane is survived by his wife, Cathy of Edmond, OK; son, Alan (Lisa) of Piedmont, OK; daughter, Stacy of Edmond, OK; son, Cory (Laura) of Arcadia, OK; daughter, Jessica of Edmond, OK; grandsons Chris (Lindsey) of Piedmont, OK; Blake (Rhaven) of Cashion, OK; and Matthew of Arcadia, OK; great grandson, Carter of Piedmont, OK; sister, Barbara Brackeen of Norman, OK; sister-in-law, Pat Muzny of Edmond, OK; and nieces and nephews he loved dearly.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 10th at 2:00pm at Memorial Road Church of Christ with interment to follow at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker, OK.