Charles W. “Willy” Tipton, Jr., age 68 of Farwell, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 22, 2023 at his home. On December 31, 1954, Willy was born the son of Charles W. and Artie (Wilson) Tipton, Sr. in Toledo, OH. He was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart Barbara Ann Verdon on August 17, 1973 in Farwell and together they enjoyed 48 years of marriage until Barbara’s passing in October of 2021. After moving to Farwell in the late 60’s, Willy attended and graduated from Farwell High School in 1973 and remained a Farwell resident for his entire life. During his working years, Willy loyally served as a flame cutter operator for Clare’s CMF parts fabrication department for 29 ½ years before ending his last four years of work as a delivery driver for Wickes Lumber—eventually retiring in the mid 2000’s. Willy was an avid outdoorsman that enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping with his family in his younger years—especially when those trips revolved around fishing. He also enjoyed woodworking, and most folks that knew Willy knew of his love for his 20 acre hobby farm where he greatly enjoyed raising his cattle, pigs, and chickens.
Willy is survived by his sons Chuck (Nikki) Tipton and Jeff (Eva) Tipton, both of whom reside in Farwell. Willy’s other survivors include his grandchildren Richard (Amanda McCoy) Peach of Clare, Shaneice (Jake) Green of Sanford, Kylee (Keegan Alexander) Donelson of Clare, and Jimmy Tipton of Farwell. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Artie Tipton, Jr.
In keeping with Willy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial celebration in honor of Willy will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 1 to 5 P.M. at the Clare Moose Lodge. Memorial contributions in honor of Willy may be directed to the Clare County 4-H Program. Online condolences may be shared on the Tipton family page at www.stephenson-wyman.com