Fred was a veteran of World War II and was honorably discharged in 1946 from the Army Airforce where he served as a radio communications engineer. After leaving the Army Airforce, he dedicated 50 years working at Convair, which later became General Dynamics and subsequently Lockheed Martin. During his tenure, Fred had flown on every B36 ever made in assistance with flight readiness and navigation. Retiring in 1993, he had served as Chief in the Military Electronics Data Group.
Aside from his lengthy and admirable career, Fred had also obtained is Bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University in 1964. Being an avid boater and having a love for the water, it was fitting for Fred to join the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary working with Flotilla 5-5 out of Eagle Mountain Lake in 1969. He had a zest for life and loved having lengthy conversations, both with those he knew, and those he had just met. Always wearing a smile, it was easy for Fred to forge new friendships.
Fred was preceded in death by his son, Dennis Shipley; his wife, June Shipley; and his parents Charles and Fary Shipley. He is survived by his two daughters and their husbands, Vickie and Sam Hightower; Sharon and Steve Eberlein; and five grandchildren; Jeremy Scott, Jennifer Hazeldine, Duston Hightower, Casey Hightower, and Shannon Jones. Fred also has six great grandchildren, and two nieces.
****For those attending the services, masks will be required inside and at graveside per family request.
