F. E. Tipton, Jr.

F. E. “Buzz” Tipton, Jr., 100, resident of Wichita, KS for over 90 years, passed away Tuesday, April 10, 2018. Buzz, as he was referred to by all that knew him, was born on March 19, 1918 in Joplin, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. F. E. and Mrs. Murl Tipton; sister, Genevieve Sloan; and Ree Tipton, his beloved wife of 45 years. Survivors include Shirley Pepin of Wichita; Buster and Karen Tipton of Dallas, TX and their children, Eric and Alexis; Kevin and Angie Tipton of Humble, TX and their children, Sydney and Samantha. Buzz moved to Wichita with his family in 1925. He graduated in 1936 from East High School and attended Wichita State University where he was a member of the Men of Webster Fraternity. He received his Bachelors Degree from the University of Texas in Austin. At the age of 18, his love of aviation enabled him to receive his commercial instructor rating at Kelly Field in San Antonio, TX. He served his country in WWII as a pilot, flight instructor, and check airman for various branches of the military. One of the highlights of his time as a military aviator was his appointment by the U.S. government, in coordination with General Schnault of the Chinese army, to train members of the Chinese military to become pilots and learn to fly combat missions. After retirement, Buzz was a SCORE District Representative for the Small Business Association (SBA) where he consulted numerous small business owners and travelled all over the U.S. to represent Wichita and SCORE. Buzz was a devoted member of Plymouth Congregational Church for over 80 years. During that time, he and his late wife, Ree, were involved in numerous committees, building improvement projects, and fundraisers. He was Head Usher for several years. Until his passing, Buzz had been a fixture on the back row of each weeks Sunday service for as long as he had been a member. Buzz was a 60 year plus member of Bestor Brown Lodge, the Scottish Rite and Midian Shrine. Buzz had a passion for automobiles and traveling, but regardless of where he ventured, he was proud to call Wichita, KS his home. He will be missed by many. Buzzs family would like to thank all of his friends and loved ones that supported him through his life and especially during this time of remembrances. Visitation will be from 5:00 7:00 p.m., Friday, April 13, 2018, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 14, 2018, at Plymouth Congregational Church. Graveside Service will follow at Lakeview Cemetery. A memorial has been established with: Bestor G Brown Lodge #433, 402 S. Martinson St., Wichita, KS 67213.