Joseph Howard Lipscomb Jr.

Joseph Howard Lipscomb (Joe), a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on December 9th, 2024, at the VA Medical Center in Portland, Oregon. At the remarkable age of 92, he left behind a legacy of love, service, and an enduring spirit that will continue to inspire his family and friends for generations to come.

~ A Life of Adventure and Resilience

Joe was born on July 11th, 1932, in Kent, Ohio. His childhood was filled with curiosity, laughter, and an unshakable bond with his family. When his family moved west to the quiet towns of Litchfield Park and Goodyear, Arizona, Joe embraced the desert life with open arms. He often fondly recalled days spent exploring the wilderness, insisting with a smile, “It wasn’t as hot back then.”

Joe was active in school sports, participating and traveling long distances over country and unimproved roads to compete. He achieved the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout, an early testament to his determination, discipline, and kind-hearted nature—qualities that would define him for the rest of his life. Joe attended Litchfield High School and began his studies at Arizona State University before life’s journey led his family to San Diego, California.

~ A Love That Endured

In San Diego, Joe’s life was forever changed when he met the love of his life, Mary-Martha Morgan. He was smitten by her kindness, and infectious smile. On June 2nd, 1956, they were married at Saint James by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in La Jolla, California. Their marriage became the cornerstone of Joe’s life, a partnership built on love, laughter, and unwavering support. Together, they created a family full of joy, raising four children: Lance Lipscomb (Barbara), Matthew Lipscomb (1958–1982), Mary Elisabeth Luhnow (Carl), and Margaret Edmonds (Mark).

Joe was a steadfast and loving father, always present for his children’s milestones—from Little League games and Boy Scout adventures to swim meets and family camping trips. He believed in the importance of showing up and being there, a lesson he passed down to his children and grandchildren.

His heart grew even fuller as he welcomed six grandchildren: Sarah Lipscomb (Briscoe), Morgan Lipscomb, Katelyn Luhnow (Wuhnder), Jason Luhnow, Janelle Edmonds (McClaughry), and Madeline Edmonds. His great-grandchildren—Camden Briscoe, Olive Briscoe, Charlie Wuhnder, and Colter McClaughry—held a special place in his heart, and he was lovingly wrapped around their little fingers. Joe’s greatest joy was found in the laughter, hugs, and stories shared with his family.

~ Service and Sacrifice

Joe’s life was marked by service to others. From 1951 to 1953, he served as a corpsman in the United States Navy. He went on to serve with the Medical Corps Fleet Marine Force from 1953 to 1955, where “Doc” Lipscomb courageously worked as a combat corpsman with the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division in Korea. Stationed along the front lines and the DMZ, Joe embodied bravery, loyalty, and selflessness. He carried those values with him for the rest of his life, proud to have served his country.

After his time in the military, Joe pursued higher education, earning his degree in Architectural Engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. His career spanned architecture, engineering, real estate development, home building, and even the food industry, where his creativity and hard work shined. Through every role, Joe’s priority remained providing for his family and sharing his wisdom with others.

~ A Passion for Community

In retirement, Joe’s passion for service never faded. He became a fixture in his beloved Tualatin community, actively participating in city planning meetings, task forces for aging initiatives, and veterans’ causes. His advocacy for the Veterans Memorial at Tualatin Commons reflected his deep respect for those who served and his desire to honor their sacrifices.

One of Joe’s most treasured moments came in 2023 when he traveled to Washington, D.C., with his grandson Morgan through the Honor Flight program. The trip was a profound and emotional experience, highlighting his pride in his service and the bonds he shared with his family.

~ A Lasting Memory

Joe’s was a life marked by love, laughter, and quiet strength. He taught us to embrace life fully, to cherish our families, and to serve others with an open heart. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory lives on in the stories we share, the lessons we carry forward, and the love we continue to show one another.

As Joe would often say with a twinkle in his eye, “Keep getting into mischief, but stay out of trouble.” His words remind us to find joy in the little moments, to smile often, and to live with kindness and purpose.