John Lippolis

Birth date: Feb 29, 1964 Death date: Aug 26, 2023

Livestream link to John's funeral service, https://youtube.com/live/CAeeHOgpHqY John Daniel Lippolis passed away on August 26, 2023 in Rochester, MN, surrounded by his loving and devoted family. Born in Boise, Idaho on February 29 Read Obituary

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Rachel (Paxton) Winkel

151w ago

I have many fond memories of John, but two in particular that taught me profound lessons. Both occurred when he was serving as the Bishop and I was a youth in the ward:
The first: Bishop Lippolis called me into his office one day without being too specific about the reason. We made small talk for a minute and then he got this cryptic look on his face and said something to the effect of "I know that as a youth, it probably seems like people don't always take you as seriously as you'd like them to. Maybe it seems like people don't always listen, so you don't always feel like your words have power. I just want to let you know that what you say to people and how you say it has more impact than you think. So wield that power carefully when it comes to people's feelings." Even though he didn't say it outright, it was clear to both of us that my teenage attitude had pushed my poor youth leaders too far and they were likely exhausted and unsure what to do with me. While he had every right to give me a stern lecture, John's graceful wisdom and gentle kindness got the message across crystal clear that day; I've never forgotten it.
The second: Eileen Cheney had just passed away from cancer. Coincidentally, I was scheduled to sing a musical number, "Consider the Lilies" in church the next day. When I reached the lines "Consider the sweet, tender children who must suffer on this Earth. The pains of all of them He carried from the day of His birth," I thought of Eileen, and I broke down and couldn't finish the song. I hoped it would pass without comment. After the meeting, Bishop Lippolis pulled me into his office again and said something like "I know you probably would have liked to give more technically perfect performance of that song, but I want you to know that what you did was just as beautiful and powerful a testimony as any rendition could have been." John taught me that an imperfect offering, made in love for God and others, is a precious, beautiful thing.
We will all miss John so much and we are lucky to carry with us everything he taught us. We love you, Lippolises.

Curtis Jackson

152w ago

My first memory of Bishop Lippolis was as a young, young man visiting the Ames Ward and seeing a quirky-looking guy in a brilliant bow tie step up to the pulpit and give a talk. I don’t remember the topic but I do remember the feeling: light, well-thought out, and with copious laughter. As my bishop during a time when I didn’t know who I was, he provided life-long wisdom, stern reminders of the standards of the Church he served, and unconditional love which was exuded each time we spoke. There are a great many men in the world, but not many as great as Bishop Lippolis. I cannot express my gratitude for the glimpses of him I was able to get, the role model he was, and the legacy he has left. We are all poorer for having lost the value he added to each life he touched. I will miss you Bishop, thank you for your life and example.

Cheryl & Bob Howard

152w ago

Leah our dear friend,
Bob and I so enjoyed viewing the wonderful service for John today. Of all the beautiful tributes given of him Bob and I can also say “John saw us”. As our friend and LDS Bishop we felt his sincere presence in our lives. He made a difference and our hearts are broken for the loss and lonely times you and your sweet children will certainly endure. We love you and John; you will be in our prayers that your hearts might be lifted by family and friends and certainly our Father in Heaven in the coming days.
Love, Bob and Cheryl Howard

Charmaine Fuller (Figgins)

152w ago

I remember my times in Ames fondly, in no small part to John and the Lippolis family. He was bishop of that ward at the time we lived there and served our family in meaningful and important ways. My ex husband loved John. I hope they’re getting a chance to reconnect and talk genetics in the afterlife. Much love to Lea, Sully, Julia, Evan, and Aria.

Julia Ridpath

152w ago

John was in my research unit at the NADC. Sitting in his office sharing a few laughs always brightened my day. He was a very bright, very humble man. I am grateful that I had the chance to know him. Thanks to his family for sharing him with us. May God give his healing Grace to his family in their grief. He was a good man and will be missed.

Marvin Smith

152w ago

Though John was only 14 (leap-year birthdays), he made an impact on all of those around him. My favorite memories with John occurred serving with him in church assignments. Whether he was working with the youth and celebrating his "twelfth birthday\

Indira Kudva

152w ago

Our deepest condolences to Lea, Nora, Julia, Aria, Evan, and all of John's family. John and I worked collaboratively on several proteomics-based projects at the NADC; his insightful suggestions as well as his sense of humor will be greatly missed. My family and I pray that he rests in peace and that his family has the strength to bear this untimely loss.
-Indira Kudva with Manohar John and Julie-Michelle Manohar.

Jeff Smith

152w ago

Words cannot express the sorrow and joy I feel when I think about John. He was always looking for ways to serve his church, his family and his heavenly father. When it came to humor, John had a keen sense of timing...when it came to concern, he never put himself first and always looked for ways to help, and when it came to his family, he loved them and provided them with a fierce sense of responsibility. I take comfort in knowing that he is at peace and preparing a way for us in heaven.

Rachel (Paxton) Winkel

151w ago

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