Kip Wayne North

Kip Wayne North of Tucson, AZ passed away Friday, November 24th, 2017 in Austin, TX from a heart-related incident at the age of 73.

Kip was born June 23, 1944 in Fullerton, CA to George & Ivy North, but soon moved to Phoenix, Arizona.  Kip was an active and curious child, always building things, playing with his sister Lynda, friends, and members of a large extended family.  He built all manner of motorized scooters, tinkered with cars, and toys, and spent many a weekend waterskiing with family and friends.  He played football for Central High School.  Friends and family have heard countless stories of his childhood on the family farm, and the sorts of trouble they could find in large groups of similar-aged cousins with time to kill.

He graduated from Central High in Phoenix in 1962 and the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ in 1977.  He married Penny Ellen Sage in Tucson, in 1969.  Kip and Penny gave birth to a son, Jacob in 1974.  Kip & Penny were happily married for 48 years until Kip’s passing.  They were involved and supportive parents, helping at school events, soccer tournaments, bike races, and other events.

Kip worked for Hughes Aircraft and Raytheon as a contracts negotiator for many years before retiring eleven years ago.  He enjoyed many hobbies such as cycling, fishing, building model airplanes & boats, and shooting sports.  Kip was also an accomplished landscaper, and he and Penny hosted many a meal cooked in their outdoor kitchen and served in their outdoor dining room and patio.  Kip had a knack for pleasant conversation and humor, and was well liked by all who knew him.  Many people have contacted the family after hearing news of his passing to relate a fond memory, a laugh, or how Kip was a positive influence.

Kip is survived by his wife Penny, his son Jacob & daughter-in-law Darlene, and his sister Lynda.  Kip will be cremated in Elgin, TX this week and his family will host an informal celebration of life Saturday, December 9th at noon at Casa de Feliz at Hacienda Del Sol, 5501 N. Hacienda Del Sol Road, Tucson, AZ 85718.