Curtis Keith Kipke

Curtis Keith Kipke, 77, of Traverse City Michigan entered into eternal life with his family by his side on July 19, 2023, after a courageous battle with Leukemia. Curt was born on October 9, 1945, in Lansing Michigan to the late Herbert Edison and Mary (Uptegrove) Kipke. Curt served his country honorably as a lieutenant of the United States Army from 1968-1970. He was awarded the National Defense service medal, Vietnam service medal, Vietnam campaign medal w/60 device, Army Commendation medal and 2 overseas bars. On June 3, 1972, Curt married Jane Elizabeth Noskey in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Curt had a career in education and community schools. He is well known in the community as a driver's education instructor for Traverse City Area Public Schools, and then as the owner of his own business, Grand Traverse Drivers Education. Curt was a member of Immaculate Conception church and served as an usher for several years. Curt loved to travel and attend local sporting events. He especially enjoyed cheering on his children’s and grandchildren's events and activities. Curt also had a passion for photography and worked at Cherryland Speedway and Disney World. He had a deep unconditional love for his family, enjoying Sunday dinners, playing games with children and grandchildren, “Kipke Weekend,” and holiday gatherings. He was on the “righty” team for the annual Christmas football game. He also enjoyed a fun round of golf with friends and family. Curt is survived by his wife of 51 years, Jane; their children Bryan (Karen) Kipke, Elizabeth (C.J.) McAllister, Shelly (Bryan) Teesdale and Kevin (Meredith) Kipke; grandchildren Lilianna, Jewel, Ethan, Evan, Estella, Sam, Margot, June and Henry; brother Jon (Sharon) Kipke; sister Camilla (Larry) Horowitz and sister in-laws Betty Kipke and Sally Kipke. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 5 to 7pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. The rosary will be prayed at 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday July 24, 2023, at 11am with visitation beginning one hour prior at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Graveside services will take place at 1:30 at Oakwood Cemetery where he will receive full military honors. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the American Cancer Society or to the Gary Sinise Foundation. Thank you for sharing memories of Curt on his tribute page.

Curtis Keith Kipke

October 9, 1945 - July 19, 2023