Philip Shippert

SHIPPERT, PHILIP JAMES Philip Shippert, age 50, of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly, on August 27, 2013. Philip was born in Weehawken, N.J. and grew up in East Aurora, NY. He was the son of Rev. Paul (deceased) and Bernice Shippert. He is survived by his wife, Laurel Woodson-Shippert, whom he married in 1991. They have three children, Lucie Sun He, Violet Chun Shui, and Jonathan Fu Gui. Philip's siblings are A. Paul Shippert, married to Cyndy Shippert, David M. Shippert, married to Catherine, Timothy M. Shippert, Stephanie R. Dee, married to Daniel Dee, and Judith Shippert (deceased). Philip was a much loved brother-in-law and adored uncle to ten nieces and nephews. Philip has been "shooting" since his early teens and chose photography as his profession in 1982 when he enrolled in the photography school at Southern Illinois University, graduating with a BA in 1986. In 1989 Philip Shippert Photography was born in Chicago. During the 24 years since, his style has matured through his own professional work and experiences: world travel, international adoption and community service. Shippert Photography was established in 2000 and is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.Philip was an active member and deacon of Sunshine Community Church, member of the APA National - American Photographic Artists, West Michigan Ad Club, American Ad Federation, photographer for KidsGames and the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Rapids and a ski instructor for Cannonsburg Ski Area. Philip was passionate about serving His Lord in his work, his church, in mission, and together with his wife, Laurel, in raising their three children. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton SE. The memorial service will be held on Friday at Sunshine Community Church at 11:00am with Rev. David Huizenga and Rev. Joshua Blunt officiating. Donations may be given to: Shippert Children College Trust Fund,c/o Founders Bank & Trust. 161 Monroe Ave. NW,Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Attn: Shelley.