John Thomas Shipley

John Thomas Shipley passed away on February 5th, 2015 at the age of 57 in Everett, Washington. John Shipley was born August 28th, 1957 in Wichita, Kansas to Charles and Patricia Shipley, currently residing in Mill Creek, Washington. John is survived by his loving parents and is their fifth of seventeen children. Johns surviving eight brothers and eight sisters and their respective families - mainly reside in Washington State, with two sisters and two brothers living out of state or overseas.John was a sweet natured little boy full of life with handsome blue eyes and dimples. John was about five when his family moved to Seattle, Washington where he attended elementary school at Our Lady of the Lake in North Seattle, followed by Junior High at Jane Adams and Nathan Hale High School. Growing up, John enjoyed playing with his brothers and sisters and going on camping trips and hikes to various national parks. John also loved reading, especially history, throughout his life. In his boyhood, John joined the Boy Scouts where he had many fun adventures. During his early teens, John survived a terrible car accident which was a pivotal point in his life.In Johns young adult life he grew to like construction work and enjoyed the different experiences the trade could offer. Remodeling work also exposed John to different venues and travel. It was during this time that John met and fell in love with his companion, Annie, and they shared a life together for 13 years. During this time they managed apartment buildings in Seattle as well as lived in Arizona for about 5 years where John worked in construction and restaurant management. Getting to visit the Grand Canyon was a real highlight of his time there. John and Annie moved back to Seattle and John worked for a time in manufacturing. John mourned Annies passing in 2000. Throughout Johns many struggles, he loved his family and truly enjoyed being part of the laughter and warmth of family gatherings. He also felt the love and comfort of God in his life. Even in the end, John remained hopeful that he could have a bright future and a new healthy life. Through the grace, blessings and love of our Heavenly Father our dear son and brother, John has that new and everlasting life joined by his grandparents and uncle who passed before him.The Funeral Mass for John Shipley will be held at Saint Marks Catholic Church in Shoreline, Washington on Thursday, February 12th, 2015 at 11:00 am with Father David Mulholland presiding. The pallbearers will be Johns brothers. Those who would like to pray the Rosary before the Funeral Mass, please arrive at St. Marks at 10:20 am. Arrangements will be handled by Becks Funeral Home and interment will be at Holyrood Cemetery in Shoreline, Washington.In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial donations be made to Catholic Community Services or the Everett Gospel Mission, both of whom were instrumental in Johns life and care.Johns parents wish to thank the many family members, friends and unsung heroes who lifted John up with patience, compassion, forgiveness and love. He is in Gods arms now, free from sorrow and pain.The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18John Thomas Shipley, child of God may you rest in eternal peace.