Norman "Tip" Ernest Tipton

Norman “Tip” Tipton, Jr., 74, of Hickory, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, at Frye Regional Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on December 3, 1950, in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, Tip lived a life marked by humor, compassion, and deep devotion to the people and animals he loved. He was the beloved husband of Pamela Henderson Tipton and proud father of Laura Elizabeth Tipton. He was preceded in death by his parents, COL Norman Ernest Tipton and Sabina Elizabeth Tipton, as well as his son-in-law, Michael Paul Hadley, and several cherished pets.

Tip dedicated much of his professional life to public service, working as an IT professional at Catawba County Department of Social Services before his retirement. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in Sociology, attending NC State and eventually graduating from Lenoir-Rhyne College.

He and Pam shared a deep, joyful partnership, doing almost everything together. She even rode her own Can-Am for a time, joining Tip, their daughter Laura, and son-in-law Mike on motorcycle rides—one of their favorite shared adventures. Time spent with his family was what he enjoyed most.

Outside of work, Tip’s passions were many. He was a fierce advocate for animal rescue, participating in numerous dog rescue transports. He loved riding his BMW 1250 GSA motorcycle, playing and watching disc golf, and spending time with his granddogs—most notably as Maya’s favorite ball thrower, a title he wore with pride. Tip was also an avid bird watcher who took great joy in observing the wildlife that frequented the family’s front yard. Pam was often right beside him to point out various birds and other animals, such as deer, so they could enjoy their visitors together. He also spent countless joyful hours “flying” as a virtual pilot, managing his own virtual airline, Pacific Airways, and flying under his well-known call sign: PAY6132. He was even referred to by some fellow virtual pilots as the “Silver Fox.”

Tip was known for his towering height at 6'6" and even bigger heart. He had an unmatched sense of humor, never missed an opportunity to crack a dad joke, and could strike up a conversation with anyone. A devoted father and family man, he never missed a single event or moment in his daughter’s life. He was her greatest supporter and cheerleader. Tip was also a passionate voice for equality and human rights, living by the principle that kindness and fairness mattered above all.

A celebration of Tip’s life will be held at Caring Cremations Life Celebrations on Thursday, July 10, with a receiving of friends beginning at 3:00 PM, followed by a small service at 4:00 PM, where those who loved him are invited to speak and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hartman's Haven Dog Rescue utilizing PayPal: hartmanshaven@gmail.com, Venmo: @HartmansHaven-DogRescue, or by check to: P.O. Box 742, Conover, NC 28613.

Tip leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him—human and animal alike.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.caringcremations.net. The Tipton family has entrusted arrangements to Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals at 828-855-3350.