Obituary of William David Tipping

Bill Tipping passed away suddenly at home in his 74th year. Loving husband of Christal Tipping for 50 years. Cherished father of Amy & husband Rick King and Paul & wife Courtney Tipping, and grandfather of Rick King & Katy King. Special “Billiam” to Sam Julich and “Grandpa T” to Kristine King. Predeceased by his parents Ed & Irene, brother John & his wife Grace, sister Fran & her husband Joe Buck, and nephew Jim and niece Deb. Survived by many nieces, nephews, their spouses and their families. Missed by beloved cats Tubby and Fred.

Bill was a proud member of the Thorndale Optimist Club & Mount Olivet Masonic Lodge. When his kids were young, he was a volunteer firefighter with the West Nissouri Fire Department and coached youth baseball. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing a good game of euchre or cribbage, as well as attending summer theatre. He loved to travel throughout Canada, go on cruises, and most recently took bus trips to Ireland and Newfoundland. He could often be found sitting, napping, or having a beverage on his front porch from spring until fall, chatting to those going by and anyone who would sit awhile.

Bill worked in road maintenance as a grader operator for West Nissouri Township / Thames Centre for 40 years before retiring at 60. Since retiring, he would often smile and laugh during a snowstorm, knowing that he didn’t have to plow it. He was a friend to many and would strike up a conversation with anyone he met, wherever he happened to be. He was always there to lend a willing hand whenever needed and will be missed by many.

The family wishes to thank the Thames Centre Fire Department for their quick response.

On Jan. 23, 2026, at the Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home, 47 Wellington St. S. St. Marys, there will be a Masonic Service at 5:30, followed by public visitation from 6 - 8 pm.

The Memorial Service will be conducted at the THORNDALE UNITED CHURCH, 245 King St., Thorndale, on Jan 24, 2026 at 11 am with Pastor Pam Wilcox officiating. Spring interment in Vinings Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Diabetes, Heart & Stroke, and Cancer would be appreciated. Bill often said “Always remember the good times” and at family gatherings, as he tucked his fork in his shirt pocket “Keep your fork, the best is yet to come.”