Richard H. "Dick" Pipes

Mr. Richard H. "Dick" Pipes, age 90, passed away at home from natural causes, Monday, March 19, 2012. Born July 12, 1921 in Louisville, KY, Mr. Pipes was the son of the late Hoke S. and Margaret (Fralin) Pipes. Mr. Pipes was a veteran of WWII, serving in the Army Air Corps as a B17 Bombardier. His missions were flown out of North Africa and Foggia, Italy, with 5 missions over heavily defended Polesti Oil Fields in Romania. During his service, he received numerous medals including the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Flying Medal. He attended the University of Georgia and moved to Bartow over 60 years ago. Mr. Pipes was the co-owner and operator of Wilson-Pipes Men's Clothing in Bartow and was the owner and operator of Pipes Paddock Pools Inc.. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Carlton Pipes and son Jefferson Pipes. Mr. Pipes is survived by a loving family that includes his children; Christopher Pipes (Elizabeth) of Amelia Island, Tim Pipes (Brenda) of Riverview, Pegi Brock of Orlando, Laura Shirley (Tom) of Lake Placid, his sister Mildred Lanier Shook of Birmingham, AL, and his half-brother Daniel Pipes of Columbia, SC. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren; Katie, Erin, Megan, Maggie, Richard, Kelsey, Patrick, Jeremy, Matt, and eight great grandchildren; Madison, Stephen, Olivia, Evan, Bubba, Haleigh, Jackson, and Sam. Finally, Mr. Pipes leaves behind Sharon Tidwell, who has shared with him friendship, companionship and love. Arrangements are being handled by Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow where the family will receive friends Thursday, March 22nd from 6 to 8 PM. Funeral services will follow Friday, March 23rd at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church, 310 South Broadway Ave. in Bartow. Contribution can be made to Good Shepherd Hospice or American Legion Post #3 of Bartow. Condolences may be made to the family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com