Clyde Nipper

Clyde Edward Nipper, a beloved member of the Belgrade community for many years, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 in the comfort of his home surrounded by family at the age of 100. Clyde was born in Palmer, Missouri on October 20, 1923, a son to Hurst and Ethel (Jenkins) Nipper both of whom preceded him in death.

Clyde’s strong work ethic began at a very young age. When Clyde was just a boy, he dug tiff with a pick and shovel. As he got older, he worked for Pea Ridge Mines, helped build the original Taum Sauk Reservoir, Ford Motor, Fisher Autobody, and so many more. Clyde was a proud American. He was enlisted in the U.S. Army on June 24, 1943 at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. Attended Basic Training at Camp Roberts, California, from there he went to camp Cook, California, where he attended Culinary School. He was stationed for a while at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; then to Camp Maxey, Texas and Camp Shanks, New York. On October 30, 1944 he was stationed at Denbigh, North Wales until April 23, 1946. While overseas, he was a truck driver, often driving for the Officers, and was in battle in Rhineland and Central Europe. Clyde received the following declarations and citations: Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 2 Bronze Stars, and the World War II Victory Medal. Clyde was among the last soldiers to come home from Germany. He received an honorable discharge from service on April 28, 1946 at Jefferson Barracks.

On June 12, 1948, Clyde was united in marriage to Margaret Talley and together, they built a life of love and devotion. Nine children were born to this union. Clyde was musically talented and often played his dobro and sang tenor for a few bands in his prime. Clyde adored his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed keeping an immaculate lawn, reading his Bible, visiting with family, and sitting on his front porch waving at friends passing by. His family described him as a man of strength who was loving, honest and fantastic.

Those who remain to forever treasure his memory include his six children: Ronald Nipper, Debbe Free and husband Chris, LaDonna Earney, Barbara Coleman and husband Derrick, Kathy Pashia and husband Brian, and Sandy Brown and husband Dan; twenty-one grandchildren; and a host of great grandchildren; one brother, Cyril Nipper (wife, Bonnie); sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Wilma and John Svetina; as well as nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to Clyde’s parents, he was also preceded in death by his loving wife, Margaret Nipper; two daughters: Linda Sue Nipper and Patricia Diane Mayberry; son, Dennis Nipper; granddaughter, Bethany Free; son-in-law, Billy Earney; and his siblings: George Nipper, Erma Hudson, Bernell Nipper, James Nipper, and Deloris Akers and five great grandchildren.

In celebrating and remembering the life of Clyde, the family invites you to join them for a time of visitation at DeClue Funeral Home on Sunday, June 2, 2024 from 10 a.m. until the time of his Funeral Service at 12 p.m.

Interment and final prayers will follow at Caledonia Methodist Cemetery, where Clyde will receive full military honors presented by the U.S. Army and VFW Post 6947. DeClue Funeral Home was honored to have served and ministered to the family of Mr. Clyde Nipper.