David Richard Sipes, 48, died Sunday, Oct. 23, 2005 due to an automobile accident. He was returning to his home in Flagstaff, Ariz. after a visit with his family.

He was born July 12, 1957 in Trenton, N.J., the son of Dotty Sipes, who survives in Michigan City and of Wilburt Richard Sipes (Dick), who preceded him in death on April 30, 2005.

He is also survived by a brother, Douglas John (Brenda) Sipes of Pittsboro, Ind.; a sister, Deanna Ruth (Bob) Callegari of Michigan City; nieces and nephews Bethany and Joshua Sipes and Patrick and Samantha Callegari; cousins Janet, Jeri and John, Bob and Nancy and aunts, Betty Huber, Geraldine Jones, Katharine Thomas and Frank and Marge Murphy.

David graduated from Elston High School in 1975. He attended Indiana University, Bloomington, interested in environmental studies. He lived in Flagstaff, Ariz., which he loved because it afforded him to be able to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

He was compassionate and possessed a great sense of humor and was always seeking to help others, even as a kid growing up. He was a very dedicated and loyal employee.

David was an apprentice and followed a Shamanic spiritual path for the past 15 years. He had been honored to hold a sacred pipe. He was a lover of nature and conservationist and free thinker, who touched many lives.

A spiritual remembrance will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29 at First Presbyterian Church 121 W. Ninth St., Michigan City. Cremation will occur.

Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. at the Church. Several other services are being planned in Flagstaff, Ariz. Carlisle Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Michigan City Lions Club or donor’s choice.

Posted 10/27/2005