David LaVern Hipley

David LaVern Hipley, 78, left his earthly home on April 10, 2026 after a lengthy battle with kidney cancer.

David was born in Hart, Michigan to the late LaVern and Marie (LaPorte) Hipley. David never had the chance to meet his father, who passed away three months after marrying Marie. Shortly after his death, Marie learned she was pregnant. Marie never remarried, often saying LaVern was the one and only love of her life.

David enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1967, and was honorably discharged in 1971 from Camp Pendleton in Southern California. He served in Vietnam, including hazardous tunnel duty, and supported additional missions requiring a security clearance.

David worked and retired from Pacific Bell, then became a Correctional Officer and worked at prisons in both California and Burlington, Colorado.

He is preceded in death by his parents, LaVern and Marie Hipley; his grandparents, aunts, uncles and his former wife Beth.

Surviving family includes his wife of almost 21 years Susan (Fross) Hipley, his mother-in-law Edna Fross of Bethune, CO, two sons Bryan (Tracie) Hipley of Sacramento, CA, and Stefan Hipley of New Jersey, one daughter Chelsea (Anthony) Briganti of Laguna Nigel, CA, one step daughter Brandi (Cody) Bevis-Gubbels of Yuba City, CA and one step son Bradley Bevis of Meridian, CA. He was also blessed with four grandchildren; Apollo Hipley, and Oliver, Isla and Bennett Briganti.

David loved riding his Harley Davidson and spending time with family and friends.

Memorials may be made out to the Immanuel Lutheran Church and may be left at the service or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.