Obituary
Robert L Shipley
“Our Mighty Oak”
Robert “Bob” Lee Shipley, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023 at the age of 85 from cardiovascular complications. He is survived by his wife of 61 years Paulette V. Shipley, his daughter Sandra M. (Shipley) French and son James M. Shipley.
Bob had an amazing son-in-law, Steve French and a beautiful daughter-in-law Shirley Shipley. He has seven grandchildren that lovingly called him Papa including Stephanie Bridgeman, Joshua French, Tasha French, Marissa French, Jacob Shipley, Daniel Shipley and Zoe Shipley. He also had eight great-grandchildren, Cayden, Jack, Arabelle, Tyler, Leo, Olivia, Mikey and Lillyana.
Bob’s life began on April 25, 1937. His teenage years were filled with a love for cars and hanging out with friends. He was drafted into United States Army and advanced to the rank of Specialist Grade 4. He excelled as a sharpshooter and later transferred into the reserves. He was honorably discharged in November 1964.
Bob met the love of his life, Paulette Ocello in 1960. They married on March 23, 1962. Bob attended trade school and became a Master Level Carpenter. Eventually, he started his own business and spent decades doing everything from commercial construction to fine finish work. Bob was often regarded as the Michelangelo of his trade.
After retirement, Bob spent his days in his workshop. He converted his three car garage into a fully functional woodworking oasis. He often made special projects for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved his beautiful bride Paulette with all his heart. You could often find him in front of his big screen TV, watching woodworking shows, action movies or comedians. He had a huge sweet tooth and loved to have dessert with his grandchildren, great grandchildren and children.
Bob built his life on a foundation of Commitment, Love, Honor, Courage, Strength, Humor, Integrity and Family. He was truly a man filled with love, joy and happiness. He will be missed.
A viewing will take place at Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society on Monday April 10, 2023 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. Inurnment with full military honors will be held at Bushnell National Cemetery in Florida on Thursday April 20, 2023 at 12 Noon (to be confirmed).
Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society
1350 E. Burleigh Blvd
Tavares, FL 32778
(352) 508-9501
Bushnell National Cemetery
6502 S.W. 102nd Avenue
Bushnell, FL 33513
(352) 793-7740
Visitation
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
1350 E Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778
Leave a reply