Ralph "Big Ed" Shipman, Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, husband, and brother died suddenly at his home on Friday, June 2, 2023, at the age of 62. He was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on October 22, 1960, to Ralph Sr. and Sondra Shipman and was the only brother to his sister, Lynn, and his late sister, Susie. Eddie spent decades in the automobile industry where he received numerous certifications and awards for his work in the financial sector. His career opened the door to lifelong friendships and business relationships that he deeply cherished. In 1998, he met his life partner, Paulette Schmidt, and her three children, Stephenie, Kelsey, and Michael.
Eddie was a kind and generous man who loved spending time with his family and friends. He was an avid Sooner football fan and Nascar enthusiast, who enjoyed fishing and smoking cigars with his buddies. He was the pillar of the family and the first person to show up when you called. He greatly loved his sister, Lynn, and her two children, Teddy and Madason, and enjoyed watching their families grow and develop. He accomplished many things in his lifetime, but nothing made him happier than being Papa to his three grandchildren, Kostyn, Heidi, and Lily.
Eddie will be profoundly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, his sister and extended family, as well as his many friends.