P. Vernon "Sip" Sipperley

P. Vernon “Sip” Sipperley, husband of Mary Riley Sipperley passed away on November 2, 2017, at The Thompson House in Rhinebeck NY.

Vernon or ‘Sip’as he was known was born on Dec. 17, 1930 at Northern Dutchess Hospital, (the 1st year it was opened) in Rhinebeck, NY.  He was the son of Carlton G. & Marion Weckesser Sipperley.  Vernon, with his brother Peter operated CE Sipperley Plumbing and Heating Inc. Rhinebeck NY. He joined the business after graduation from Rhinebeck High School in 1948.  Vernon grew up with the business, always enjoying working with the men.  CE Sipperley was a three generation business having been started by Vernon’s grandfather in 1912.

On October 17, 1953, at the Good Shepherd Church, Rhinebeck he married Mary Riley his high school sweetheart and the love of his life.  During their happily married life Mary and Vernon did much traveling to most of the islands, across the US, to Europe and British Isles; a special spot was Cape Cod MA. They also enjoyed their precious dogs. 

In his high school years Vernon played baseball and basketball.  He was a lifetime member of the Church of the Messiah where he served as an acolyte for many years and worked at the Fair Booth for its duration of 47 years. In retirement he took care of the grounds, trimming and raking etc.  Vern was famous for his sweeping and raking, kept his home street spotless as well as areas around the fire house.

He served two years in the US Army 1953-1955, serving one year in Germany. He was a Life member of the American Legion Montgomery Post #429 and the VFW.  He joined the Relief Hook & Ladder Co. of the Rhinebeck Fire Dept. in Feb. 1949 and continued as a member until his death.  He held the offices of Lt. and Captain for many years and later Vice-Pres for many terms.  He was Foreman of the hand tub engine, Pocahontas for over 25 years.  Vernon was President of the New England States Veteran Firemen’s League from 1983-1995, and was active in mustering, fire fighting and parades.

He enjoyed softball, bowling, ice skating, dancing and socializing.  He could be seen around the Village during the snow seasons with his 29 Ford Model A snow plow, which he used from an early age until he sold it in 2011.   

In addition to his wife of 64 years he is survived by his brother Peter and a nephew Karl F. Sipperley both of Rhinebeck; a niece Shirl (Nick) DiGugno of Red Hook; a grand-niece Malia DiGugno and a grand- nephew Josh DiGugno  both of Red Hook; as well as many cousins and many friends.

Calling hours are Sunday, November 5th, 4 to 7 PM, at the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home, 51 W. Market St., Rhinebeck.  Members of the Montgomery Post #429 will conduct services at 6 PM; and members of the Rhinebeck Fire Department at 6:30 PM.  Funeral Services are Monday, 11 AM, at the Church of the Messiah, Rhinebeck.  Interment with full military honors by Montgomery Post #429 will follow at the Rhinebeck Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to The Rhinebeck Fire Dept, 78 E. Market St. Rhinebeck  or The Church of Messiah P.O. Box 248, Rhinebeck, NY.

To sign the online register please visit dapsonchestney.com 

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