Jack G Kipp

In memory of Jack Kipp (August 21, 1951-August 1, 2015)

Some people are born with a positive disposition. Others struggle to emulate it. Jack Gregory Kipp was one of those individuals who just made you feel good and laugh when you were around him. His sense of humor gained him a following of friends who were honored to call him "friend."


Jack was born to Woodrow William Kipp  and Marcele Elizabeth Kipp on August 21, 1951 in Middle Point Ohio. He is survived by his brother Jeff W. Kipp and a favorite niece, Amanda Neidermire, one cousin Helen Miller and along with so many close friends and admirers that this could go on for pages.

Shortly after his dads passing in 1980 and leaving his comfotable job at Ford Motor Company he decided he needed a change and moved to California to start a new life. It was there through a co worker that explained to him he was gay. He shared that they together would go out and she helped him discover the true Jack that we all loved. 

In approximately 2003 he made another change and moved to Portland OR. It was there he found the Anawim Spiritual Community. He remained a commited member for about 13 years. He at the beginning remaind very quiet and private as others would share openly I believe he blossomed even more through them. In the ladder days He bacame and leader and was leading discusions that left the men refreshed as he always did with everything in his own way with joyfullness and laughter.

Jack worked at Providence Hospital since October 20, 2003  as an Administrative Assistant in the cancer clinical trials and transplant devision.

Jack was well known to many in the gay bowling community of Portland OR , not because of bowling skill, but mostly his cheerfulness. Jack organized the “Bebitched Team.” They never won a title. But they certainly had fun. And that sense of fellowship earned Jack and his bowling buddies, the honored title of “Sportsmanship” season after season. 

On August 1, 2015, Jack was camping with four other member of his Anawim spiritual group on Mt. Rainier. Minutes after beginning a hike Saturday morning, Jack collapsed on the trail. Other hikers immediately began administering CPR and park rangers as well as medical personnel worked for over an hour to try and revive Jack. However, in the end, it is believed his heart simply gave out. Jack's death was sudden and without any warning. There is some comfort in knowing that he was among friends, in a beautiful setting, and doing something he loved.

Jack had made plans to retire in August of 2016.  He had sold his home and was finalizing his plans to move to Palm Springs at full retirement.  Jack will remain a smile and a fond memory in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Jack loved to entertain. In fact, one memory that was recently shared was at an Easter buffet that Jack was famous for hosting. Apparently, the oven disagreed with Jack’s timing and his Easter Ham became known as "The Blackened Ham."

Jack's memorial service will be Saturday, August 22, 2015 at 1:00PM. The service will be held at Metropolitan Community Church (2400 NE Broadway, Portland, Oregon 972332). A Potluck buffet will follow. Please feel free to attend and share some of your stories of this beloved man.