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Merle Thomas Shipman
Merle Thomas Shipman, 91, passed away Saturday, April 22, 2017 in his home, surrounded by his family. He was born February 27, 1926, in Guthrie, Oklahoma to Bert Henry and Altha Pearl Gramley Shipman.
Merle was raised on a farm in Guthrie, Oklahoma. His mother passed away when he was eight years old, leaving behind Merle and his two brothers, Leroy and Ernest.
Merle attended Sunny Slope country school through the eighth grade, and graduated from Guthrie High School in 1946. Upon graduation, he began his career as a farmer / rancher.
On December 20, 1947, Merle married his high school sweetheart, Norma Jeanne Towle, in Edmond, Oklahoma. After they were married, Merle farmed and worked for Santa Fe Railroad for sixteen years. After retiring from the railroad, he continued to farm while he worked for Kelly Propane for twenty-four years. Merle and his wife resided on their currently operating farm for fifty-six years, up until the date of his death.
Merle's greatest love was his family and his passion for farming. He would spend countless hours in the pasture checking his cattle. At all times, he exemplified Proverbs 12:10, "The righteous person looks out for the welfare of his livestock..." Merle took pride in his cattle and his land. For Merle, harvesting his wheat was the highlight of each year. His days began before the sun had risen and often would not conclude until long after dark.
Merle was a member of Albert Pike Masonic Lodge No. 162, and was a 32nd Degree Mason of the Scottish Rite, Guthrie, Oklahoma. He was a charter member and deacon of Community Church, Guthrie, Oklahoma.
Merle was generous and kind. He was a gentleman who always placed others needs before those of his own and ensured that everyone he encountered felt valued. He would always tell visitors, "Take your time going and hurry back." Merle had the gift of laughter which he shared with his children and grandchildren. His smile was contagious. He was compassionate and loved deeply. He embraced life and enjoyed every minute to its fullest. Merle was strong and courageous, never complaining and always uplifting.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Norma Jeanne; three children, Linda S. Redman of Midlothian, Virginia, Ronald L. Shipman (Marsha) of Guthrie, and Carol J. Shipman of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; three grandchildren, Mark G. Redman of San Marcos, Texas, Kristen M. Redman of Greensboro, North Carolina, and Ashley N. Haynes (Cameron) of Wichita, Kansas; one great-granddaughter, Elliot R. Haynes of Wichita, Kansas; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Merle is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leroy and Ernest; sister, Nellie Bostwick and sister, Stella Irene who died in infancy.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at Community Church with Pastor Bill Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Summit View Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Smith-Gallo Funeral Home, Guthrie.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Gideon's International, P.O. Box 54, Guthrie, Oklahoma 73044 for the purchase of Bibles in memory of Merle.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, 12:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M.
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