Charles E. Pipkin

Pipkin, Charles Edward, age 90 died peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2015 in Knoxville. Born in Columbia, Tennessee on January 13, 1925, he was a graduate of Farragut High School, and served his country in World War ll as a gunner’s mate second class in the Pacific Theater. He was proud of his country and his ability to serve. In 2011, he participated in the Honor Air program. Returning to Knoxville after the war, Charlie met and married Catherine Brown. He also started work at Pips Iron Works, which was founded by his father Fred Pipkin. Mr. Pipkin served as president of Pips Iron Works from 1976 until 1996 and continued as a consultant until 2014. Mr. Pipkin was an active member of Central Baptist Church of Bearden for 69 years where he served as a Deacon and taught Sunday School for many years. As a member of the Greatest Generation, his word was his bond. He never passed anyone in need. From changing tires to delivering firewood, he was a living example of his faith. Charlie will be remembered for his great love of his family, his humor and his sharp wit. He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Kate Pipkin, and by daughter Ann Theresa Pipkin; brother Douglas Pipkin; sisters Ruby Pipkin Patterson, Helen Pipkin Painter and Jean Pipkin Benson. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Catherine (Catsue) Pipkin; sons Paul and wife Dianne Pipkin of Knoxville, Mark and wife Jan Pipkin of Lenoir City, Tony and wife Jan Pipkin of Little Rock, Ark.; daughters Mary Charles and husband Danny Murdaugh of Fayetteville, Ga., Katie Shapiro of Davidson, N.C. and Carole and husband Bill Czajkoski of Cumming, Ga.; twenty grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. The family is grateful to Dr. Robert Montgomery for the care, compassion and friendship he brought to Charlie and his family. Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2015 Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel with the Rev. Mark Moreland officiating. Interment will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery with full Military Honors.

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Charles E. Pipkin

February 26, 2015