Douglas Eugene Shippert, age 82 of Rio, passed away Monday, October 6, 2025 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison. He was born October 30, 1942 in Dixon, IL, son of William and Dorothy Shippert.

Douglas was raised on a dairy farm, where he learned the value of hard work and developed a lifelong love for the land. He graduated from Dixon High School and went on to earn a B.S. in Education from North Central College in 1965. Later, he received an M.S. in Educational Administration.

Douglas began his teaching career in Aurora, Illinois, before moving into school administration. His career took him from Dixon, Illinois, to Rio, Wisconsin, and ultimately to Yerevan, Armenia, where he continued his dedication to education.

On May 17, 1975, Douglas married MaryAnn Finch in Dixon, Illinois. Together they built a life full of love and adventure. In 1984, they purchased a lot on Washington Island, which became their cherished retreat and “happy place.”

Doug was a longtime member of the Chicagoland Sports Car Club and the North Windsor United Methodist Church. His passion for cars began with drag racing in high school and continued with sports car racing, an enthusiasm he later shared with his son, Ethan.

Doug enjoyed reading, gardening, and attending car races, but most of all, he treasured time spent with family and friends on Washington Island. He will be remembered for his warmth, dedication, and the many lives he touched through his love of learning and adventure.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years MaryAnn; children Beth (Christopher) Shippert-Myers of Milwaukee, WI, Ethan (Rebecca) Shippert of Petaluma, CA, and Laura Shippert (Alan Sharp) of Westfield, Scotland, UK; grandchildren, Cecilia and Robin Meyers, Noah and Lucas Shippert, and Graeme Sharp; sister Louise (Earl) Bishop of Greer, S.C.; brother-in-laws Jerry (Lynne) Finch, Paul (Ellen) Finch and sister-in-law Beth (Bill) Kociuba. 

Doug was preceded in death by his parents William and Dorothy; in-laws Harry and Betty Finch; grandparents Eva and Noah Beard; and best friend Jim Waddell.

A memorial Service will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at the North Windsor United Methodist Church. There will be a luncheon and fellowship from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at the Rio Elementary School gym following the service. Memorials may be sent to NPR and PBS, or North Windsor UMC. A special thank you to the many people who have reached out to the family, it means so much to know he was loved as much as we loved him.