Obituary: Captain Robert J. Shipner of Palatine, Korean War Veteran and Entertainer

Captain Robert J. Shipner, 83, of Palatine, IL. was born on March 23, 1930 and passed away on April 28, 2013.

Beloved husband of Irmgard, nee Nicolai; loving father of Sheila Cox, Sandra Grimm, Robert Shipner and Daniel Shipner; proud grandfather of Matthew, Melissa, Katie and Nicholas; dear brother of Patricia Trgovich and the late Richard Shipner.

Robert attended St. Francis de Paula Elementary School, Hirsch High School, St. Ambrose College and the University of Illinois.

He served in the US Navy during the Korean War. Robert served with Eastern Airlines for 33 years as a Captain, VP of Flight Operations and Chief Pilot. He enjoyed singing and playing trumpet.

Prior to joining Eastern in 1957, he had been a professional vocalist in night clubs and theaters, with occasional appearances on radio and television, and made recordings for Mercury Records using the stage name "Bob Connally".

After retiring from Eastern Airlines, he resumed his musical career playing trumpet and singing with Franz Benteler and the Royal Strings and the Yorkville Big Band.

Funeral Information

Funeral Mass Saturday, May 4, 10 AM at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 455 N. Benton Street, Palatine. Interment will be private at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery.

Donations Information

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Robert's name to The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005 would be appreciated.

Information provided by Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home.