Karl Lloyd Shipley

Karl L. Shipley died unexpectedly on April 30, 2019 at home in Carlsbad, California. He is survived by his wife Kristie, sons Evan and Wade, and sister Gretchen Ashby (of Arlington, Virginia). Karl was born in Washington, DC in 1953 and grew up in Virginia. Karl loved his family completely and was so proud of his sons.

Karl had a forty year career in construction safety. He started in the mailroom at Associated General Contractors in Washington, DC and with time was promoted. His first field safety position was with Alcoa in Iowa followed by Alabama. During the next fifteen years he worked in Ohio, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania with Gilbane Building Company. In 1996, he moved to California as a safety manager for DPR Construction. During his last few years, he worked courageously to recover from serious injuries that ended his career.

Karl was never happier than when he had the right skills and tools to help someone. He was dedicated to keeping everyone safe on the job and off. He was a skilled trainer and mentor.

Karl favored shirts with pockets, Red Wing boots and Makita tools. He had every tool imaginable in his workshop, yet always enjoyed a trip to the hardware store to buy just one more. He loved music and playing the trumpet. He did the New York Times crossword puzzle every morning. He had a gift for photography. Karl loved his church family at Immanuel Lutheran in Oceanside and served his church in several roles over the years.

Karl accomplished his goal of making a positive difference in the lives of others and he will be greatly missed.