Jerome Andrew Lipp, 72

With much sadness our family and friends have learned of a wonderful man's passing on Dec. 28, 2024, Jerry Lipp. Jerry fought a courageous battle against a glioblastoma brain tumor that could not be conquered but he "endeavored to persevere" regardless. We had more time with Jerry because of the expertise of Dr. Joseph Sramck, Dr. Jeffrey Eshleman, Dr. Peter Wagner, our friends at the Oncology Infusion Room who always had a smile and showed respect and encouragement. 

Jerry was born and raised in Hingham, Montana to Frank and Norma Lipp on Dec. 23, 1952. He was raised on the family farm, and this is where he learned the importance of honesty, family values, being a good friend and doing the right thing. He never hesitated in helping others and usually sitting down and calculating out a better outcome. He was his niece Paula's go to guy saying, "call Uncle Jerry." 

Jerry attended school in Hingham (some years taught by his mother Norma) a small country school then off to Montana State University where he earned a master's in microbiology. He never lost his love of learning and often read a book each week. His love of reading was passed down from his mom. 

Jerry moved to Kalispell and Bill Doyle took him under his wing and offered him a job. Bill, his mentor, gave Jerry his chance of being self-employed by selling him part of his business thus creating Environmental Consulting, which he operated until his retirement. He met many lifelong friends from this endeavor one of whom was Tom Sands. 

Jerry met his best friend and life's partner in 1984, Barbara Brandt, and they were married in 1988. They were by each other side until he was called to heaven. Their love story would be one that others would be fortunate to experience. Trying times strengthened their marriage and they became stronger together. Barbie never left his side and was given the privilege of holding him in her arms through his last breath at home. When Jerry passed, we know there were angels present to escort him to his greatest home of heaven. 

Their family included children, Heidi (David) Smith, Christopher (Tiffany) Lipp, greatest love his grandchildren, Harper and Wyatt. Jerry and Barbie became grandparents and daycare providers since the time they were born. Grandpa always read stories to them; however, he altered them to teach them to be "good conservatives" like Rush Limbaugh. Needless to say, he had a great sense of humor. 

Jerry is survived by his wife, Barbie; siblings, Al Lipp, Linda (Leon) Kappes, Mike (Joan) Lipp and Joanne Ferrell; children, Heidi (David) Smith and Christopher (Tiffany) Lipp; grandchildren, Harper and Wyatt; many nieces and nephews, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by parents, Frank and Norma Lipp; sisters, Rosie Lipp and Francie Lipp; father-in-law, Leo Brandt; brother-in-law, Sammy Brandt; and good friend, Paul Wells. 

Jerry's hobbies and passions were fly fishing with buddies, Eric and Ron Mulcahy, being a self-taught master woodworker, gardening, having a perfect lawn, and friends and family. His most notable characteristic was sharing his vast knowledge and great sense of humor. His distinctive knee slapping laugh was one of a kind and we will miss it. 

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Jan. 3, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home with final resting at Glacier Memorial Gardens. 

The family wishes to extend our appreciation to Chaplains Michelle and Drew of Braveheart Ministry, Enhabit Hospice, sister-in-law, Donna Spencer who sat by his side when needed (she promised Jerry she would be there until the end, and she was), niece, Kayla Stinger (who helped Barbie so much in Jerry's final days), best friends, Tom Sands and Eric Mulcahy who never forgot their friend. 

If you care to make a donation in Jerry's honor, we suggest that Wings Foundation and Braveheart Ministry, both deserving entities that help those in need. 

Jerry, we love you to the moon and back forever and ever. God has chosen and received another angel and Auggie Doggy has been waiting for you and his treats! Our hearts have been broken but your memories will sustain us. When you left us, you had angels watching over you until it was time to go. God speed my love, until we are together again, we love you! "I'm not O.K. but I'll be fine." 

Friends are encouraged to visit the website at www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolences for the family.