Bertram Samuel Lipsey, age 71, of Clearwater, FL, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, at Tampa General Hospital, with his loving family by his side following complications after a surgical procedure.
Bert was born on December 4, 1952, in Savannah, GA, to parents Harris Simon and Helen Dinnerstein Lipsey. He grew up in Jacksonville, FL, where his love for flying took root. Bert’s early passion for aviation led him to become active in the Civil Air Patrol during his youth, and this enthusiasm continued throughout his life.
In 2001, Bert met his future bride, Vicki Nocera Mitchell, and they were married on May 11, 2002, at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa in Safety Harbor, FL. Together, they shared 22 years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.
Bert proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring after more than 20 years of distinguished service. Most of his military career was spent as a Flight Engineer on C-130s and KC-10s, including time with the Special Operations Squadron at Hurlburt Field. His service included participation in Desert Shield/Storm and numerous other missions. After retiring from the Air Force, Bert continued his aviation career as a Flight Engineer on 727s for ATA Airlines until their 727 fleet was retired after 9/11. He later joined Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, where he worked as a Maintenance Trainer until his retirement in January 2019.
Bert was a man of many passions. He loved building and flying RC planes. He obtained his pilot’s license, and took to the skies whenever he had the chance. Equally passionate about fishing, Bert held fond memories of fishing with his father as a young boy and treasured the time spent on the water fishing with his family in his boat. At one time an avid motorcycle enthusiast, Bert enjoyed riding his HD Roadking, attending bike nights, and participating in bike week events.
Despite his demanding career, Bert was a devoted father, actively involved in his children’s lives. He served as a Scout Leader for his sons, Michael and Ben, and supported his daughter Amanda’s involvement in band and color guard. He was also a loving stepfather to Amanda Mitchell.
Bert will be remembered as an amazing husband, a man with a great sense of humor, a knack for cooking, and a talent for fixing almost anything. He was kind, loving, and the best dog dad ever. His family and friends are left with a huge void in their lives, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Bert is survived by his beloved wife, Vicki Lipsey; his sons, Joseph Michael and Ben; his daughter, Amanda; his stepdaughter, Amanda Mitchell; and his grandsons, Jacob and Liam. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harris and Helen, and his brother, Lawrence “Larry” Lipsey.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, staff, and especially the caring nurses at Tampa General Hospital for the compassion and care they provided Bert in his final days.
Services will be announced at a later date.
I worked with Bert for many years at Lockheed Martin. He was a great man and great friend. My heart aches knowing he is no longer with us. Prayers and condolences to the family.
What a beautiful tribute. I know my dear friend Vicky has a heavy heart right now along with the other members of his family. Cherish his memory and how much love and joy he brought to your lives.
Bert was a wonderful friend and neighbor. Nobody could grill like him. Sometimes when he had his grill fired up, especially on holidays, he would send a plate over to me. I would reciprocate sometimes by making him blueberry muffins. That was one of the first things I thought of when he died, that I wouldn’t be able to bake for him anymore. I appreciated that he was a dog lover. Many times we waved at each other when we both seemed to pick the same time to take our pups out around midnight. He was a good man, and he will be missed.
Bert was a wonderful neighbor and friend. He was a master on the grill. And so generous, especially on holidays when he and Vickie would send a prime rib dinner over. He also was a dog lover. Many times we would wave at each other from across the street when we would both be outside around midnight taking our dogs out for “last call”. He was a good man, and he will be missed.
Bert was my brother-in-law and we shared a passion for flying.
He will be missed and long remembered with love and respect.
May he rest in peace.
I was one of Bert’s coworkers at Lockheed Martin in Pinellas Park, FL. Bert was a pleasure to work with and an exceptionally gifted teacher of aircraft maintenance and repair for Lockheed. He was always willing to help when asked and helped so many learn by providing quality education and direction. I feel honored to have known and worked with him. Bert was a down to earth guy with a great personality. RIP my friend and I hope to see you on the other side…