Gary Richard Lipsis, 75, of Springfield, Missouri, sadly but peacefully, passed away, Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Cox Medical Center.

Gary was born on February 22, 1942 in Portland, Oregon to Percy and Anna (Bolin) Willis.  In 1947, Gary was adopted by Richard (Dick) and Pricilla Lipsis.  He graduated from Clinton High School in 1959.  After college Gary entered the United States Marine Corps. After being medically discharged, Gary resided in Clinton, MO.  In August of 1969 he married The former Joyce Ann Parks and became stepfather to Christopher, Jeffrey and Carrie Parks. Gary was employed with Peabody Coal Mine. He was a member of the American Legion.  He was a charter member of The Clinton Country Club. In December of 1972, Gary was severely injured as he attempted to rescue trapped citizens of Clinton when the former Pogue Building exploded.  His, along with the victims' families and many others, lives took on a different course that frigid, December night. How proud would Gary be to know that he was able to give even more of himself in a final gift:  through Mid-America Transplant, and as a registered donor, he will be able to give someone the gift of sight & new skin to other burn victims.

Gary loved Clinton and the people in it.  His love for it kept him there until June of 2018.  He moved to Springfield, MO and became the next-door neighbor to his daughter Sherri, and happy that Carrie was just a few miles away.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Sherri Lipsis Spachman, stepdaughter, Carrie Parks (Jim) Quesenberry, his two stepsons, Christopher (Kelly) Parks and Jeff Parks, sisters, Mary Jo Wagner and Peggy Jo McIntosh along with several loving nieces, nephews and grandkids.  He was preceded in death by both his biological parents, Dick and Pricilla Lipsis whom he knew and loved dearly as Mom & Dad, brother Percy "Bob" Pickering and sister Patricia Kettwig.

Gary was a loving father, good friend and an admired son. He is and always will be greatly missed.  I love you Dad.

Per Gary's wishes, cremation will take place.  Daughter, Sherri Spachman, will announce a Spring Memorial at a later time for her dad.