Robert Lee Shipp passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of a heart attack while working in his legendary tomato garden. Bob was born in Hiram, Georgia to Georgia and Basil Shipp and was one of four boys. At the age of 17, Bob joined the US Navy, which eventually brought him to the San Francisco Bay Area where he remained. Bob graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Metallurgical Engineering, and began his career at General Electric. After retirement from GE, Bob went into consulting; in this he found true career happiness.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Eileen, his children, John Shipp (Catherine) and Melanie Richards, and Linda Brewka (Richard) and John Heinz, and his much loved grandchildren, Jessica, Julia, Anthony, Skyler, and Grace. Bob was wonderfully unique, respected and loved by many; he will be greatly missed. In his wife Eileen's words, "He makes my heart smile."

A Celebration of Bob's life will be held at a later date.