Obituary of Gary Dean Shipman

Obituary of Gary Dean Shipman, MD Gary D. Shipman, MD, beloved husband of Barbara and friend to many, passed away into the arms of the Lord on Thursday, July 1, 2021. Gary was born on June 26, 1934, in Bakersfield, California to Odos D. and Jean Shipman. He attended Williams School, Washington Junior High and was a proud graduate of East Bakersfield High School, class of 1952. Upon graduation, he attended Biola (Bible Institute of Los Angeles) and the Church of the Open Door where he made many lifelong friends. Gary went on to continue his education at Cal State College at LA and then began to pursue his life's desire to study medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine in CA. Gary was unable to complete his studies at that time and moved to San Bernardino where he worked as a Medical Technologist. At the age of 40, Gary decided to fulfill his yearning to study medicine. He attended the University of Monterrey, located in Monterrey, Nueva Leon, Mexico. Because of a special Fifth Pathway Program, Gary was able to complete his course of study at the Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY (now the NY Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital). Gary obtained his medical degree from The University of the State of New York. He chose Diagnostic Radiology as his specialty and did his residency at the Methodist Hospital. Gary practiced his fellowship in Nuclear Medicine at SUNY at Stony Brook, University Hospital School of Medicine. Upon completion of his fellowship, he joined a Radiology Practice at CastleView Hospital, Price, Utah. Nearly forty years after leaving Bakersfield, Gary returned there to practice Radiology. It was a special time for him as he reconnected with many of his classmates and friends from his younger years. Gary also made many new friends. Gary retired in Bakersfield at the age of 72 and his health began to deteriorate. Gary was a diabetic and was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2011. As the disease progressed his activities slowed down. Upon the death of his sister-in-law, Carol Deloff, Gary and Barbara were bi-coastal for several years until it became impossible to travel. Enjoying the four seasons, they decided to permanently reside in Cortland, NY. Gary is survived by his wife Barbara, son Gregory (Brenda) Shipman, brother, Earl Lee (Sheryl) Shipman, sister Carole Harden, two grandchildren, four great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins, and many special friends. Gary dedicated himself to the Lord at an early age and was baptized in the Kern River. He continued his faith journey with some hills and valleys, but knew with the hope we have in the love of God (Romans 5:8) and is now present with the Lord. He loved to travel and saw much of the world. His greatest passion was supporting missionaries to spread God's word. Gary was a hard worker who loved his work in the medical field. He was a kind team player who strived to do the best he could to help others. He will be missed by friends and family and lovingly remembered for his bright smile, infectious humor, and compassion. A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 12 at 11:00 am at the Bible Baptist Church, 15 West Road, Cortland, NY.