Richard L Sipes

Richard “Rick” L. Sipes, 72, passed away on October 23, 2021 at IU Hospital.  He was born November 23, 1948 in Lafayette, IN, the son of Robert and Margaret (Silverthorn) Sipes of Rossville, IN both of whom proceeded him in death.

Rick graduated from Rossville High School, Class of 1966.  Following graduation, he started his apprenticeship as an electrician ultimately obtaining his Master Electrician title. Soon after high school, Rick married and had 2 daughters, Myra and Nikkia.  In 1981, he married Debi Farmer of Kokomo, IN adding a daughter and son, Kimi and Cabe. Rick and Debi celebrated 40 years of marriage in July.  Rick owned his own companies for years providing electrical and home building services. He was the creator of Silverthorn Creek housing addition in Rossville, IN naming the street after his grandmother Maude Silverthorn.

Rick had a passion for adventure. He enjoyed spending time on the family farm, riding motorcycles, snowmobiles and 4-wheelers. He loved to travel, especially the roads less traveled, and instilled that adventurous spirit into his kids.  It seems there were very few things he was incapable of doing or building. He had a thirst for knowledge that helped him overcome most obstacles.  His motto was always, “Work smarter, not harder.”

Rick was known to have a quick wit and a bold personality.  In the 80’s he was a member of a Rossville snowmobile club. All the members knew if Rick were leading the pack it was sure to be a challenging ride but typically worth the risk. In retirement, he enjoyed day long motorcycle rides with life long friends. He often traveled to Arizona and California adventuring with his trusty dogs. 4-wheeling in the mountains with Debi and visiting friends he had met during his extensive travels. 

Rick is survived by his wife Debi, Rossville, IN.  In addition are his daughters Myra (Sipes) Yundt of Lafayette, IN, Nikkia Sipes of Los Angeles, CA, Kimi (Sipes) Hathaway and her husband Christophor Hathaway of Rossville, IN; son Samual Cabe Sipes and his wife Patricia Sipes of Rossville, IN. Rick also has seven grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and two brothers, Phil Sipes of California and Larry Sipes of Rossville IN.

In place of a service, Rick will be celebrated privately by family centered memorial in which a tree will be planted at the farm.  Those who wish to remember Rick in a special way, you may make gifts in his memory to:  President Benjamin Harrison Conservation Trust Fund  402 W. Washington St., Rm W256  Indianapolis, IN 46204  This trust acquires and protects land that represents outstanding natural resources and habitats, or have recreational, historical or archaeological significance.