Richard “Dick” Lippert, 97, of Rockford passed away Wednesday, November 20, 2024, in Alden Park Strathmoor. He was born January 28, 1927, in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of Albert and Cecelia Lippert. He was a Veteran of World War II serving in the Navy Seabees in the Pacific Theater. He married Mary Lippert in St. John's Catholic Church in Independence, Iowa on August 8, 1953, Mary predeceased him in 2017. Dick worked as the Elementary PE Coordinator for RPS 205 for many years. Member of Saint James Church.

Survivors include his children, Thomas (Patti) Lippert of Ingleside, IL, John Lippert of Carol Stream, IL, daughter, Therese Ann (Bill) Kopec of Chicago, IL, son, Charles (Michele) of Manitowish Waters, son Andrew (Rhiannon) of Rockton, IL; grandchildren Ann, Amy, Emily, Brittany, and Layla; great-grandchildren, Camille and Dean. Numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary, and his daughter, Martha Jane Lippert. Brothers, Clarendon, Clarence, and William. Sister, DorothyAnn.

Dick lived a full life, with his participation in World War II. He went to college which includes the University of Northern Iowa, Rockford College, and Northern Illinois University. His highest degree was an MA in Education. A lifelong IEA and NEA member. He worked for RPS 205 including Highland, Conklin, Jackson, and Johnson Schools. He also coordinated PE for Saint Edwards, Gloria Dei, and Lutheran. He also worked for the Rockford Park District for over forty years in the Recreation Department. One of his other passions was sports officiating. He officiated Football, basketball, and baseball, and was the first to officiate all three sports at the state finals. He did this for Forty-One years after which he was inducted into the IHSA Hall of Fame in 1992 for basketball. 97 went to heaven, 98 He couldn’t wait.

Funeral Mass at 11:00 am Tuesday, November 26, 2024, in St James Catholic Church, Rockford. Entombment in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation from 10:00 am until the time of mass Tuesday in the church. There will also be a celebration of life for Richard on January 25, 2025, the obituary will be updated with times at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dick’s name to Rockford Park District Foundation, or the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (Bruce Firchau/ IBCA HOF, P.O. Box 8004, Elburn, Illinois 60119), are appreciated. Either goes to great causes.