Ron Schipper memory blog
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Updated 1:30 p.m. on April 20.

Archived entries
March 28, 2006
March 29, 2006
March 30-April 3 entries are below

Coach Ron Schipper 1927-2006
Schipper memorial service videos available
Video copies of the April 22 memorial service at Central College for Coach Ron Schipper are now available for $15/VHS or $20/DVD. The price includes shipping and handling charges. To place an order, call Tim Hoekstra at the college Media Center at (641) 628-5169 or send an e-mail to hoekstrat@central.edu. Checks should be made out to Central College and mailed to:
:
Schipper memorial video
Media Center
Central College Campus Box 6500
812 University
Pella, IA 50219

more on Coach Ron Schipper

Download a copy of the April 22 memorial service program.

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You can still share your thoughts through the Ron Schipper memory blog. Send them via e-mail to eighmys@central.edu. Alumni, friends, fans and colleagues are encouraged to submit their messages.

Harry Smith '73
Harry offers his audio commentary titled Ron Schipper: A Football Legend courtesy of CBS Radio.
download the audio clip here (MP3).

In the world of college football, he was a pretty big deal. He was one of the most successful coaches who ever lived. He had a record 36 consecutive winning seasons. The minute he retired, he went straight into the College Football Hall Of Fame.

You've never heard of him because he was a small college coach. NCAA Division III, where there are no scholarships, no slush funds and no scandals. He was a legend in that world.

Ron Schipper was his name, and he was my coach. He died suddenly of a heart attack Sunday night, and I've been thinking about him ever since.

I was a pretty good jock in high school and was recruited to play football at schools many times the size of Central College in Iowa. But Central had Schipper. And I chose him.

He was tough and old-fashioned. Schipper knew more about football than just about any coach in the country, but here was the difference: He loved us, his players, unconditionally. I'm convinced that's why we won.

Rachel Schipper '05
My grandfather was a man of many words and right now its hard to put into words what he has meant to me. For those of you who were blessed to have known my grandfather, I am sure you understand. My two years at Central were probably the best and hardest two years of my life, but while I was there I was able to witness the incredible recognition that my grandpa earned while he was at Central. I got a job at the Schipper FItness Center as a freshmen (I wondered how that happened) and I felt honored to answer the phone, "Ron Schipper FItness Center." I saw pictures of my grandpa everyday and I wanted to be just like him. He believed in me, he motivated me, and he loved the Lord more than anything. The respect my grandpa has earned is something I have always treasured. My freshmen year I also played soccer for Central, and I remember the first game game he came to. It was actually the same day he had to coach the Alumni game, but he was determined to make it to my game as well. And he did! My grandpa met some of my best friends in the entire world at Central, in fact he invited me and three of my friends to come to Florida for spring break my freshmen year. I don't think he knew what he was getting himself into. But he loved every single minute of it. He loved those girls like they were his own granddaughters. We have stories after stories about our trip to Florida because of him. He called us his "cronies." Karie, Kari, Ber, and myself!

I love my grandpa soooo much, he was my inspiration. All I know is that those in heaven better be ready for some football! :)

Love you Grandpa!

Tony Sutton
I am very saddened to hear of the passing of Coach Schipper. When I met him at the Aztec Bowl in 2004, he showed a passion for all of the players who were members of the team. There was not a day that went by that he was not encouraging to each member. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this unfortunate time.

Doug Fisher '73
In 1969 Coach Schipper turned me from a hot-shot high school quarterback into a humble defensive back in two days and I liked it - an amazing feat from a great coach. My memories of Coach are many. I’ve had the pleasure of playing golf with him quite a few times and that is a real experience as you might expect. Den Herder, Joe Lucas and I played in the Hall of Fame outing in Des Moines a few times and we had a great time with Coach contributing more than his fair share. My “Simpson College” wife Pam, whom he adored, will never forget Coach being the one to come tell me my future father-in-law died back in 1972. I can never thank him enough for teaching me the card game bridge on the out-of-town bus trips. Still play the game today. I’ll miss him greatly as will the whole Central extended family. God bless Coach Schipper and maybe have him pencil me in on offense when I get there.

Joyce Brown '75
As I read the many wonderful memories of Coach Schipper, I wanted to include one more. This man was not only a cherished football coach and teacher, but a man of great compassion and understanding. My story is different than some of the others, but it is another example of his greatness.

About a month from graduation, I got the call that my Mom had passed away. Having lost my father a few years earlier, it was going to be just me at graduation and the ceremonies leading up to it. To the rescue was both Joyce and Ron Schipper. They escorted me to all of the graduation activities and became my "Central Family" for that time. I have these wonderful pictures posing with the Schippers complete with cap and gown, as if I was one of their own children.

As time has gone on, I realized that I was one of his children, as have so many of the young people that have known him. How lucky we all have been to have this wonderful human being in our life! I only hope that my own children will some day have such a tremendous, caring, person in their lives.

Over the years, we have had some brief contact, but his influence on me has lasted all these years.I will always cherish my time at Central and especially Coach Schipper. And especially his bear hugs.

To his family, I would like to thank-you for sharing him with all of us. We have all been so very lucky.

Dan Koskamp '82
In many ways my story is representative of the impact of Coach Schipper. I didn’t play all that much until my senior year. I even had considered not going out my senior year. I wondered if maybe God had a more productive way for me to spend my time. I prayed about it and got the sense God was saying, “Stick your nose back in there, stick with it, and get to work”. Hmmm…sounds much like what Coach Schipper might have said. Apparently, God knew it was the most productive way for me to spend my time that year.

I was able to see some of the productiveness of it right away, as I became a starter my senior year. I’ve always appreciated how Coach had a penchant for honoring seniors whenever possible. Coach didn’t have to start me my senior year as my good friend, who was a year younger than me, and had started in front of me the year before, was probably just as good as I was. (We shared playing time my senior year). For me, the reward of starting as a senior hammered home the concept that discipline, perseverance, consistent 100% effort even when on the scout team, preparation, workouts done right even when no one is watching, faith, mental toughness, confidence coupled with humility, and hard work done with a good attitude somehow has it’s payoff in the end. It meant a lot to me as a senior, but the character lessons I learned from it mean even more to me now. My football experience at Central was the only thing that prepared me for what I would later face in life.

Much of the fruit produced by my Central football experience I wasn’t able to see until years later. Seventeen years ago at the age of one, my son was diagnosed with a disease that would eventually lead to a dozen or so surgeries and at one point, a near-death experience. For years, the demands of daily and nightly care and the stress that added to family and marital life had us teetering on the edge of family destruction. I’ve been told that marriages with a chronically ill child end in divorce close to 90% of the time. Nothing prepared me for that and helped me endure until the payoff more than the lessons of discipline, perseverance, consistent effort, faith, mental toughness, confidence, humility, and hard work that I learned at the hands of Coach Schipper.

I think the essence of what Coach taught us was how to perform at a championship level for the things that would matter most to us later in life. For me, it means I write this today as a grateful man who still has his family intact. And not only are we still intact but I love my family more than ever and I have the assurance that my wife and children love me more today than ever before.

Rick '70 and Sarah Ryan '71
Coach Schipper - we came to know him in our early years at Central,albeit via different paths. He was a caring man who pursued life with passion. Coach had the very special ability to connect with people of all ages quickly and with true caring. He gave freely as a mentor, counselor and friend. The Central family has lost a fine human being - his memory will be cherished. We are blessed to have known this man, and shared time with him.

Pat Smith '76
Many memories and emotions returned upon learning of Coach's passing. I'd like to extend my deep condolences to Coach Schipper's family and friends. Words are inadequate to express the true meaning of Coach Schipper's achievements and acomplishments during his remarkable lifetime. Like the many others who Coach touched during his life I am a much better person for the experiance. Thank you Coach Schipper for all that you did and may God rest your soul.

Bob "Oz" Langerak '68
I offer my sympathy to the family and friends of Coach Schipper. He was a man who built character, confidence, and the attitude to give no less than 100% of your ability. Take comfort that his teachings have spread to many a young woman and man through his association with his football players and Central students. He was a man who left his mark on many of us, too many to count, and this is a true measure of one's life.

Doug Black '70
Several years ago, I had taken a football job at Lancaster, Texas and I called Coach Schipper asking what I could do to put a team together. He advised me that I must start with trust, respect and love. What Coach gave as advice he lived every day. He was trusted by all that knew him, he was respected by all that knew him, and he was loved by all that knew him.

Judas H. Maude he will missed by all of us. His positive impact on people will go on forever. How would Coach Schipper handle this, will be the question I ask myself many times again this year. I sure loved that man.

John '77 and Bev Wagner '77
This is a belated note, but I have thought about writing to Tim and his family every day since I heard about Coach passing. He changed my life in a single moment. I know the exact spot on the sidewalk west of Dowstra Chapel where he stated with question in his voice: "So you really think you can play football here!?" Four years later, he was right. I hadn't played a lot of varsity football, but I obtained an excellent education, and most importantly, I met my wife. We have now been married 30 years and our daughter graduated from Central in 2004. I now tell my own son the appropriate order of priorities in life as I was instructed by Coach Schipper: God, Family, School and Football. To Tim, Sara, Thom and Joyce: We think about you daily, and thank you for sharing your dad and husband all those years.

Dave Timmer
Ten years ago, a group of middle-aged folks from Second Reformed Church spent a week renovating the fire-damaged sanctuary of a small Reformed church in the Bronx. One evening the group went out to an ice cream parlor for dessert. Skip, as usual, was teasing the waitress - who, being a New Yorker, was giving as good as she got. When we were finished, the waitress asked, "Who gets the cheque?" Without looking at anyone in particular, I said "Give it to Grandpa." She slapped it down in front of Ron and flounced off. I'll never forget the look on Ron's face as he stared, fish-mouthing, at the bill.

Gary Boeyink '59
Coach Schipper was my mentor. He led all of us Central coaches on a journey that was characterized by integrity, honesty, loving concern, diligence, responsibility, and not the least of all humor. He taught in the best way possible – living his message.

Ron may be gone but his spirit remains forever a part of what Central College athletics would and should be.

After the game in which the women’s basketball team had accomplished the national championship in ’93, I was privy to many, many hugs and embraces. But one that will always stand out in my memory was the one with Coach Schipper – I so wanted him to be proud of me and it was clear he was.

Good bye friend and mentor.

Chia Ning
Ron Schipper lives in my heart forever. After nearly a decade I had taught at Central, I actually got first chance to talk with him face to face for a few minutes at his retirement reception in Central Station. But his letter to the whole campus community justifying my position at Central College and my right to teach the history of Asia here a few years before this moment already established him in my heart as the symbol of justice – a glorious goal in human life. During the precious minutes at his reception, I met my hero, shook his hands, and enjoyed his friendly hug.

To me, Ron Schipper represents the spirit of the dreamland where I landed myself for justice twenty-two years ago. I remember him with high respect which no words could express well. I am still shaking his hand. He is still encouraging me to go for justice.

Scott Alberts '96
I wanted to share my heart felt sympathy with the Schipper family and the entire Central College Football family which Schipper created. There are many fond memories of Coach Schipper during my time at Central. Central College football is as big a part of my education as any class ever taken, and coach Schipper was one of the greatest teachers. To Coach, football was a huge part of his life, but his greatest success was the ability to teach life to all of us through football. I am married now with a little boy, my wife Stacey (Sonnek) Alberts and I each own our own businesses. There isn't a day that goes by where I don't go back to the basics of blocking and tackling, get knocked down and jump back up, and to survive everything which life throws at you. I owe many thanks to Coach Schipper believing in me and for instilling the confidence in myself to get the job done no matter how daunting the task. Thank you to the family for allowing Coach Schipper to spend so much time with all of us and to become such a big part of our lives.

Mary Whisenand '86
To Joyce, Tim, Sara and Thom,
I can only imagine the grief you are sharing with one another during this difficult time.

My fondest memory of Coach does not have anything to do with athletics. It was the love he showed to Thom each and every time he came to see one of Thom's theatrical performances. Or the patience he showed when my brother, Chuck, showed up to Parent's Day dressed in a gorilla suit! He understood that we can express ourselves in many ways, not just on the athletic field.

Please know that you are in my prayers.

John Hanna '76
The news of Coach Schipper passing days ago knocked the air out of me. I just cannot believe that this bigger than life figure is physically gone from us. He was a second father to all of us that played under him, he was a teacher of a game, but more respectfully he was a teacher of life, he was a mentor and someone I could call a close friend.

I took my time in replying to post my thoughts for a myriad of reasons but mainly to recapture the essence of what made him the man he was. I'll never know how he juggled his coaching duties along with being a father and husband and teacher and athletic director and a listening ear to anybody that needed him. Ron Schipper had a ministry. His ministry went way beyond just coaching. He formed lives in young men from all across the country for over 40 years. He had vision and to his credit the players and coaches under him shared his conquests.

And oh how many victories in football games and in life. He made us believe in ourselves, but always put a humble spin on our personal and team victories. There was always a wry smile on his face when he talked of certain players...players like Mike Street or Dave Henion or Cliff Marlow or Freddie Fitzgerald.

He took us all to the top of the mountain...he led us by his voice (I could never figure out how on God's green earth he could yell at somebody on the field and be heard over all the hooplah happening in the stands...) but mostly he led us by EXAMPLE. He showed us how to act and how to treat others with kindness.

It is with great sorrow that I write this, but greater than that sorrow is the happiness knowing the legacy he has left us and that he is in a heavenly resting place.

To the family please know that you will continue to be in my daily Holy Masses intentions and that your sorrow is shared by all of us.

Never forget :
"Iowa Conditioning Drills"
"12 minute run"
"Call the cafeteria, we're not done here yet"
"Line those cars up with their lights on, we'll finish in the dark"
"Katie bar the door"
"Flip Da Switch"

Godspeed, Skip...I love you, we love you...you will be missed, my friend

Neal Rusher '73
It is with great sadness that I write this note. Having heard about "Coach Schipper" floods my mind with memories. I am a football coach and I daily use the lessons learned from Ron Schipper. Many have written much more eloquently than I, but I must add that he believed in me and is a huge influence then, now and forever. It was a privilege to play for and learn from "Coach".

Ed Maroon '93
I found out about Coach Schippers passing away last week and it hit me like a ton of bricks. What an amazing person! I was only lucky enough to have played under Coach Schipper for two very short years. My first two years were spent at Fresno State in California and football had become a chore. It simply wasn't fun any more. It was like a full time job. I was back home in Fremont California speaking to my high school footbal coach (Rich Larsen, class of 74) and deciding if I wanted to stay at Fresno State any longer. He always had spoken to us about how great Central College was and how special this "Coach Schipper" was. It wasn't till after I had met and played football for Schipper that I realized that Coach Larsen had shaped his coaching and life after Schipper. I will always have a special place in my heart for Coach Larsen because he took a bunch of city kids with no hope of ever winning at anything and shaped us into a winning machine at American High School in Fremont California.

Coach Larsen convinced me to take a visit to Pella and see Central College. I was very impressed with Pella and Central's campus. Before I met with Coach Schipper, I still wanted to go to another Division I school. I still loved all of the attention and fame that came with being a Division I athlete. Then I met Schipper. It took him all of thirty minutes to convince me to come to Central. He never once talk about football. He just asked me questions about my family. I told him that my parents owned a restaurant and we talked about that for the rest of the time. I kept thinking when is he going to talk aboout football. He never did. So I finally did. He looked at me and said, "There are three things I ask of my players. If you can be those three things, then you are welcome here." So I asked him what those three things were. He said, "You have to be a gentleman, a student, and an athlete." Again nothing about football. I was so confused. I felt like I had spent an hour with my grandfather. He had this presence about him. I knew that I had found the right place and I attended Central the next fall.

Coach Schipper gave me along with the coaching staff at Central (Coach Edwards and Coach Bowser) some of my greatest memories. One of the funniest moments that I can remember with Schipper was during my first year at Central. We were playing Wartburg that weekend and they were predicting a lot of snow for that Friday and Saturday. I think that we got about 14 inches of snow that Friday. I went into his office and asked him when we would be making the game up. He looked at me and started to laugh. (Keep in mind that I was from California) He suggested that I run out to Walmart and buy some warmer clothes. That is still one of my fondest memories that I have of Central. My fieldgoal and extra point were the difference in the game that year.

It is still very hard to think about Central and not think about Schipper. I have tried to go back every five years and see a home game and would always run into Schipper. He always had a smile and asked if I was till staying out of trouble, somehting that he always aked me. I will always be greatful to him for remembering my name. He always used to call me Eddie. It always made me feel good. I think about how many players he has coached over the years and he still remembered them all.

I have tried to be in many ways like Coach Schipper. I know that I will never behalf the person that he was, but he has made a lasting impression on me. He taught me how to do things the right way. He also taught me what it means to be a good hearted person.

I want to end this by thanking Coach Schipper for some of the best memories in my life. I want to thank him because while at Central I met some pretty amazing people like, Coach Edwards, Coach Bowser, Jean Vander Wert, Gert, Brian Gordon, Bill Mulder, Darren Glenn, Kris Reis and Mark Havran to name a few. Even though I grew up on the West Coast and now reside on the East Coast, I will always consider Pella home because, in my mind, that is the were I grew up. I have Coach Schipper to thank for that. I hope that I can be as good of a father to my three kids and one on the way, as Schipper was to all of the young men that had the priviledge of playing football at Central College while he coached there.

From the entire Maroon family, we send our heart felt prayers and condelences to Joyce and the rest of the Schipper family. Thank you for all of the sacrifices that you made which allowed him to be such a great influence on thousands of kids.

Posted before 8:00 a.m. on April 4.

Harold Kolenbrander '60
To Joyce, Tim, Sara and Thom,
Words will never be adequate to express the feelings that so many of us have about Coach Schipper. To many of us he was not our Coach, but yet he was our coach.

Some of the people whose lives Ron touched most deeply were athletes--many were not. You could not know Ron Schipper without being deeply impacted by his life, his philosophy, his commitment to his God, his family, his athletes, and all his friends.

I knew Coach Schipper as a faculty colleague, later as the Dean, later still as a fellow trustee and always as a friend. He was a person of deep commitment, always seeking the best for those around him. He wanted his athletes to be equally successful in the classroom and on the gridiron. He wanted all of them, indeed all of us, to be successful in life! And he was willing to give unselfishly of himself to help each person achieve the goal!

All of us will miss Ron Schipper! He was a wonderful gift to all of us for which we all can be very thankful!

Ron Fadness '87
As a student manager in the CUI Cross Country and Track programs in the 1980s, I had the great fortune to be around Coach Schipper. Even with all the people that passed through Kuyper Gym on a daily basis, he always knew my name, always said hello. I’ll never forget one occasion when I was packing for a meet, and he noticed that I was actually folding the uniforms, rather than just throwing them in the travel bags. He made a point to thank me for doing it the “right way,” and his encouragement showed me that my contributions were valuable in his eyes, even though I’d never compete for the Dutch. How can you not be affected by someone who really cared about everybody, even the manager of a minor sport?

Reading this blog, I can’t help but think of a quote that is posted on the Heritage Role of Honor board in Central Hall. It says something like ‘Anyone can count the number of seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed.’ How true. The fruit of Coach Schipper’s life will continue to multiply for as long as anyone who knew him (or has been influenced by someone who did) lives out the lessons he taught.

Tom Dickey '80
To the Ron Schipper Family,
I never played football at Central, but as a student I greatly admired Coach Schipper. I just want you to know that his impact reached far beyond his football players. He was the first professor that showed me how important it was to be prompt and disciplined. His example is what gave me the direction to be a teacher and a coach.
Through his model, I've been able to become a successful teacher and a long-time coach. The amazing thing about Coach Schipper was even though I didn't have him as coach, when I started coming to campus to visit my son after almost 20 years, he still remembered me and took the time to talk to me. He's one of the most special human beings I've had the privilege to know. Thanks Coach Schipper for giving me the direction I was so desperately looking for as a young college student.

Stephen Bell '59
Even before I got to know Ron well, my image of who he was and what he stood for was inspired by his former players. Over the years I can't even tell you how many of Ron's former players I have served with on Central College's Board of Trustees, but all have uniquely reflected the sense of commitment and the values that we associate with our "liberal arts college in the Christian tradition." And all have made it clear whenever asked that Ron was a primary force for good in their lives beyond the football field. The Good Book cautions against envy, but I must confess I have always been envious of "Skip's Boys" and the life-changing influence they shared.

Gary Cutler '75
Without a doubt, Coach Schipper was one of the most influential people in my life! His personal example of integrity, honesty, empathy for others and absolute passion for the game of football deeply impacted me at a young age when I came to Central to play football.

Winston Churchill once made the comment, "You make a living by what you get and you make a life by what you give." I can't imagine anyone giving more to others than Coach Schipper. I truly believe he enjoyed true happiness throughout his life because he focused so much on helping others.

I attended the funeral for Coach Schipper last Friday and it was an incredible tribute to his life. I was amazed at the emotional impact that this event had on those who attended (including me). This helped me better understand the impact Coach Schipper had on me and so many others he touched. I believe he coached football but taught the game of life. As the minister at the funeral commented, he used the football field as one of his platforms for helping us become better people. We are blessed to have know him and challenged to live our lives in the same manner as he did.

Pete Cartwright '82
As I have been reading all the tributes to Skip over this past week- I have been amazed, humbled, honored, and grateful. Amazed at the response- he impacted so many in so many different ways. Humbled- that I had the privilege to call him "Coach"- Honored to be part of the Central College family that he so greatly impacted- and Grateful- that he cared about me more than just as a football player.

All the words that have been written are inadequate to describe this man's impact- but we continue to try. Skip had the magic "touch" with his players- He could wrap his arms around your shoulder pads- get three inches from your nose- and "Explain" what you did wrong. And as much as you wanted to plead your case- you just went out and did better the next time- all the time thinking it was to prove coach wrong- but it really made you a better player/person. And he knew that all along.

Artist Tommy Walker wrote a song called "He Knows My Name"- a song about an orphanage in a third world country and how important it was for those kids to have an "outsider" know their names- and how God knows all of our names. I have been amazed that over half of the responses to this "blog" have been by non-football players- but almost all have mentioned that Coach "Knows My Name". How good it makes us feel when someone takes the time to "Know My Name" - it is a small thing- but what a huge impact.

Coach knew that it was the small things that made a difference- whether that was knowing your name, whether that was giving you that "explaining" hug, whether that was coming to a non-football event. Thanks for those hugs- thanks for knowing my name- thanks for being good at the little things that made a difference in so many lives.

Posted before 3:00 p.m. on April 3.

Gale Zellweger '74
The memories flooded back as I heard the news. The tears welled up in my eyes as I thought about how much Coach Schipper meant to me. He allowed me to play on his teams. When legs would not heal, he allowed me to coach his team. He taught me about football, but more importantly about life and Christian “tough love”.

I will never forget the time he took my small son into the locker room after a home game. He took my son by the hand, walked to the center of the locker room and in his commanding voice said “listen up men!” When the room hushed, he said, “I want you to meet Zach Zellweger, he will play for Central someday”. Just about every player came up to Zach and shook his hand.

Today, my son is a Dutchman, just as Coach Schipper said he would be. Thank you Coach.

Mark Blom ’87
It was the summer between my sophomore and junior year; my playing days had appeared to be behind me. I was working my summer job riding a lawn mower at Lake Keomah State Park when Coach Schipper and Coach Epperly came by for a visit. In his very compelling manner Coach Schipper suggested that the opportunity, the Central experience, was the right environment for future growth and success. I was convinced to follow his advice and the transfer was complete.

My tenure got off to a rocky beginning. During fall camp on a Friday night between practice and a team meeting, a teammate and I left campus to attend a high-school football game some distance away. Flying below the radar – since this was somewhat outside of the rule requirement of staying in town – we were back in time for the meeting and thinking 'all’s well that ends well'. The next morning, at team picture day, Coach launched into a tirade with his booming voice – the likes of which I had not seen before or since, and that is confirmed by teammates. I was feeling sick in the stomach for the poor soul that caused all this grief when, suddenly, he referenced the name of a school in the state that I attended, declaring, "I don’t care how they do things there, at Central we’re going to follow the rules and do it with class and......"

Suddenly, it became clear that the cause of his extreme displeasure had rested firmly on my shoulders! At our scrimmage later that evening, I was drilled and suffered a slight concussion. Afterward, Coach approached me with a few stern words, a big hug and a friendly smile. At this point, being really sharp, recognized who the boss was, and exactly how we were going to conduct business from here forward!

A strong-willed young man needs discipline, direction, consistency and leadership! Coach provided this and so much more.

Thank you for your attention, the opportunity and the experience. You were right Coach, Thank you!

Carlton Tarver (Simpson College '83 football player)
I was advised of the death of former Central Coach Schipper and felt the need to pass along my condolences.

As a Simpson football player and later as a Simpson Graduate and athletic booster, I was always amazed at how well your teams played. Even back in the late 1980's and late 1990's when we has some the greatest Simpson teams of all time, we BARELY beat the Dutch. Nothing more needs to be said about his coaching greatness.

My deepest sympathy to the Central and my greatest respect to Coach Schipper and his legacy!

Terry Luschen '95
This is truly sad news. Thank you for the update. I was lucky enough to be part of the football teams for Coach Ron Schipper during the 1991-1994 seasons. Coach Schipper's integrity and desire for you to be the best person possible was on display every day. With my own coaching now I am always thinking of how Coach Schipper would have done it and then I try to emulate that. His 'Student, Athlete and Gentleman' speech has stuck with me and will continue to be a main theme to those whom I now coach.

We have lost a great person who knew how to help each one of us improve every day. I send my sympathies and regards to the Schipper and Central families.

Kenneth L. Braskamp '65
Ron and I arrived on the Central campus at the same time: Fall of 1961. During my four years at Central, I grew to respect him as a person of many talents. He gave the College a compassion for doing his/her best, but under the guidance of the Lord he loved. These qualities I observed from the outside, since I did not play football.

My relationship with Ron was re-established again after I was appointed to the Board of Trustees in the early 1980s. During my visits to the campus I got to experience some of his other characteristics: love for Central, students, fellow faculty and administrators, honesty, compassion for all, and a passion to make Central a place of honor. This I always admired and respected. He was set apart to a higher calling.

When Ron joined the Board I was, once again, given the privilege of knowing a man in greater depth. He did not disappoint. He stood out. He brought clarity to Central's dreams. Dreams that would take Central to new heights. Because of Ron, Central is definitely a much better institution.

I will miss him, but I want you, his remaining family, to know that his legend will always shine, and his spirit of love and compassion for all will never die. May Central always have the "Ron Schipper Spirit."

Jim '70 and Sarah (Herrick) '71 Keegan
There is a song in THE LION KING… “He Lives in You”.

Coach Schipper lives in all those who came to know him, especially his football players and those who became coaches. Numerous qualities and traits have been passed on to others. Coach Schipper lives in them!

Duane Willhite '79
After reading Bob Schueler's comment about wishing he had the mature mind while in college to absorb Schipper's full impact, I feel I must share my story. It wasn't until 7 years after graduation that the light went on for me.

In my first year of being a head football coach at Sheffield, Iowa, coach stopped to recruit some athletes and probably more importantly, to check up on one of his guys. I was working on grades and my open book was littered with C's and D's for the sophomore biology students.
I had told myself I was a tough teacher, they had to work hard for good
grades in this class. As we chatted Coach noticed my work and
commented about how many poor grades there were in that class. I said, "Ya, they didn't do too well."

His reply was "It looks like you didn't motivate them well enough."

Whoa! I was wrong, its not about how hard you work or about how good an individual is. Its about what you've done to make those around you better. As an educator, coach, or in any leadership position, this is the lesson we take from Coach. This is his standard of success and how he won 287 games over 36 years and impacted all of us. He did amazing things to make us all better. Thanks Coach.

Posted before 9:00 a.m. on April 1

From Judi (Clauson) Vogel '82
To Joyce and all of Skip's family, you have my most heartfelt sympathy. Please know that I will continue to pray for you in the days and weeks ahead. We have lost from this world a great husband, father, grandfather, role model and friend. But we can all take comfort in the fact that he is most surely with his God and Savior now.

Over the last few days, memories of Coach have tumbled through my mind. I just can't seem to get his face, his smile, his quivering chin, his big hugs out of my mind. As I think back over the last 25 years, I realize that all my experiences with Coach can be summed up in one word, "PASSION." To me, Coach was the embodiment of that word, whether on the football field or in the board room. He was so grounded in faith and cared so deeply and completely about people, especially young people, that love came through loud and clear in his words and actions. I was describing Coach to some colleagues at work who had seen the articles about him in the paper this week. Even as I described him and told these people how much I respected his honesty, integrity, and plain talk in relationships, I found myself becoming more animated and enthusiastic. He had that kind of effect on people, and on me in particular. I was never an athlete, but I learned as much from him in meeting rooms and around a table as his players did on the field. You couldn't help but learn from Coach because he had his priorities straight (God first, family second, education third, athletics/work fourth) and he lived out those priorities for all to see. Those who knew Skip wanted to be more like Skip. Isn't that the definition of a role model? He was wired for encouraging, motivating, teaching, and caring - not to mention winning! We knew early on that this man would impact people for good. But it is only as we look back over the many years, many games, many students, many words of Ron Schipper that the magnitude of his love for God and people becomes crystal clear. What a fabulous legacy he has passed on to his family and all of us connected with Central College.

Jennifer (Semler) Walker '93
Wartburg College volleyball coach
Ron Schipper was an awesome man. Since I was a female althlete I was never fortunate enough to have him as a coach. He was, however, the athletic director during my four years at Central and even though his responsibilities as the head football coach were time-consuming, you could always find him attending other sports' competitions - even on the road. He got to know the student-athletes competing on Central's sports teams and often times their parents, too! He made every person feel important and needed. But he impressed me the most with something he did for me after I graduated.

In the fall of '97, I was in my first year as a head volleyball coach at the Division III level at a small school in Michigan - Olivet College. We were not good. We had to travel to Holland that year to play Hope College who was good. As my team was warming up and I was filling out my line-up sheet a man came and sat down next to me on the bench. I looked up to find a wonderfully familiar face smiling back at me. He put his arm around me and said, "How's it going, Coach?" Jokingly I responded with, "Great! This college coaching thing is easy." He laughed and said, "There's a lot more to it than the X's and O's, isn't there?" "Ah, yeah!" was my response. He stayed through the whole match which actually didn't take that long because, as I mentioned before, we weren't that good. Afterwards he came up to me again and once again put his arm around me and said, "How ya doin', Coach?" I smiled back and rolled my eyes, "You saw what happened out there." He simply said, "You're going to be ok. You're doing things right." We talked a little longer and I left feeling completely rejuvinated about my season and myself as a coach.

That day meant so much to me. Here I was 4 years out of Central and the former AD took time out of his day to come and watch me coach. He is a great example of what I strive to be (and fear I will never reach) as a coach and also a person. I will miss him very much, but will carry great memories such as this one with me always.

Posted before 9:30 a.m. March 31

Scott Southmayd '02
My deepest sympathy goes out to Joyce and the Schipper family. Coach Schipper was such a special person to so many people and I know he touched my life in a very special way! I will never forget the many great conversations that we had whether it was when he was back for a Central football game, or at an AFCA clinic, or coaching with him at a Central College football camp. I learned so much from him and every time you were around him or heard him speak, you knew you were in the presence of greatness. He was such a great coach but even more so a man of great integrity, loyalty and honesty. He always did things by the book and impacted so many to become better.

I will miss seeing him come to the Iowa Hawkeye football games in the fall. If we were at an away game close enough to Holland, Michigan on a Saturday, he was there to watch the Hawkeyes play. In fact he was the first one there, ready to greet us as we got off the bus. He came to our Northwestern game last year and I know Coach Ferentz, Coach Morgan, Coach Jackson, Coach O’Keefe, Coach Parker, etc…were always happy to see him there. He would come into the locker room and say hello and it was the best! He truly loved college football and was such a great ambassador for the game.

Choosing to attend Central College was one of the best decisions I have made in my life and Coach Schipper played a great role in that decision. While growing up, my dad and I would always go and watch Central play. The football teams embodied the spirit of Coach Schipper. As I watched the Dutch on the field and Coach Schipper coach, I wanted to be a part of the very special Central College family. I was very fortunate to be a student-coach for four years at Central during Coach Kac’s career. Through that I was able to meet Coach Schipper. He was a great friend and mentor. I will never forget listening to him talk to us in the staff room and I tried to soak it all in. He gave me a packet of principles for coaching and I keep that with me always! He taught all of us so many lessons but most importantly he led by example with the way he lived his life. The red C on the helmet always stuck with me and not only did it stand for Central, but also for Character – as that is what Coach Schipper had.

Thank you to the Schipper family for all of the support you gave to Coach Schipper during his career. And thank you for all of the support you gave to so many at Central College. My thoughts and prayers are with you and I know Coach Schipper will be looking down from above watching all of the football games on Saturdays! With much gratitude for what Coach Schipper meant to me and so many others – I thank you!

Dirck Bradt '68
I have pondered on what to say. Then I thought, what would Coach Shipper say or do at a time like this. I have said that often to myself over the past 38 yrs. Well we all know what Schipper would say and do. Coach Schipper taught me some powerful lessons about life. As others, I too will always be motivated by his teachings, maturity and coaching and hopefully will continue to pass on to others his positive attitude about life and death. In that regard Coach will remain with us forever.

Chad Beermann '93
I first met Coach Schipper shortly before Christmas vacation in 1988. He visited me as a high school senior on a recruiting sweep through NE Iowa.

Yes, he did give his trademark “student, athlete, gentleman” speech…but the conversation lasted an hour and a half and we also discussed Tom Clancy novels and numerous other issues. I knew then that if I played college football it would be for Coach.

I arrived on the Central Campus in the fall of 1989. I started three-a-days…but for whatever reason I just wasn’t ready for football. I ended up quitting the team. The next fall, once again I came out for the team, and once again I just wasn’t ready. In the spring of 1991 I was running on the track at 6:30 in the morning. The school year was coming to a close and Central was hosting the West Regionals in softball. As I was running, I noticed Coach Schipper up on the softball diamond. I finished my run, and walked up to the softball diamond. Coach was on his hands and knees cleaning the grass away from the baseline. We talked for 45 minutes or so, all the while I was trying to summon the courage to ask Coach if he would give me a 3rd chance. Finally, I broached the subject. Coach Schipper gave me one of his patented “over glasses” looks, nodded a couple of times, and said “We’ll be glad to have you, I’ll tell Gert to put your name on the list.” It is still one of my favorite memories. Mostly, because I didn’t deserve it. He didn’t have to take the time to talk with me, he didn’t have to welcome me back…but he did. One of my greatest regrets is I robbed myself of 2 years of his tutelage, but I know my life is better for the two years I was granted.

Another of my regrets is the same one shared by Tim Lewis on this page. I too sat in awe of Coach Schipper at the ISU clinic last spring, and was so looking forward to hearing him speak at Central’s football clinic, and working with him at camp this summer. Sitting in the files of my computer is a letter I drafted to Coach. It talks about how thankful I was for the chance he gave me to play for him after quitting, and how much the lessons of Central Football have meant to my life and my coaching. But I never sent the letter. I never took the opportunity to let Coach know how grateful I am, and how much he meant to me. I am sure he now knows, but that does not excuse my failure to tell him when I had so many chances. I guess once again Coach has taught me a lesson.

Thank you Coach, and thank you to the entire Schipper family.

Scot Hughes '86
How sad and how unexpected to hear of Coach Schipper's passing. He'll always be vigorously pacing the sidelines in my memory.

I did not know him well, although I was very good friends with his son, Thom. My freshman year I planned to play football for the Flying Dutch. I arrived with the rest of the football team a couple of weeks before classes began, settled into our dorms, met the other players and the coaching staff. It only took me a few days to realize that while I had had success and enjoyed football at the high school level, playing football at Central just wasn't going to be for me. It took a lot of courage for this freshman, who wasn't used to quitting anything, to go up to Coach Schipper after practice one evening and ask if I could talk with him in his office. He didn't know me at all ... I'm sure he'd seen dozens of players who decided it was time to end their playing days, and I was just another freshman who'd bitten off more than he could chew ... but he kindly and earnestly talked about knowing when to say when. I distinctly recall him telling me about Vern Den Herder, and how he had talked to Coach Schipper when he was deciding to retire from the NFL. While he'd undoubtedly had that same talk dozens of times before, it was a decent thing to do, and I still appreciate it. He was also nice enough to allow me to stay on as one of the team managers for that season, which was an experience I will always remember.

Coach Schipper built quite a program at Central, and his influence on Division III football will be felt for a long time. But over and above his coaching life, he was a good and decent man who cared about his players and students. My heart goes out to his family, particularly my friend Thom. We'll miss you, Coach.

Krista (Sjaardema) Grant '98
Coach Skip was a man of many talents. Coaching football was one of his greatest! I remember how he would sit in the equipment room the first week of football and tell me jokes as I washed the practice clothes. I also remember him saying my players are gentlemen, students and then athletes in that order.
He would follow that by "Krista I expect you to tell me if any of them don't follow suit." They always were and mainly because he taught them to respect themselves and to be as good as they possible could be. Coach liked to have a good time, but when it came to the game it really was not about the wins it was about the team and how they played. The players hated to lose and not for themselves but because they thought it would let him down and no one wanted to let Coach down. In all the years I never heard him yell at any player. If they messed up he would calmly walk over and discuss it with them. He did have a tendancy to "drop" his hat every once in awhile.

I was lucky to know him as a coach and a friend. Joyce and family I can only image how great it was to know him as a husband and a father. He will be missed very much by his Central family. We loved him very much. God bless you!

Larry Hook '77
Like so many, I am having trouble believing that Coach Schipper is no longer physically with us. The two most influential people in my life were my father and Coach Schipper. Both of these men were men of character. Their guidance, insight, and class continue to influence me daily.

When I first met Ron Schipper on a recruiting trip in the spring of 1973, I knew immediately, where I was going to college. When I reported to camp in the fall of 1973 and finished my first week of three-a-day practices, I did have a few doubts, but those doubts didn't last long, because as he has done so many times, Coach would mold us into not only a TEAM, but a FAMILY. I remember listening to every post practice speech, every pre-game speech, half-time speech, etc. for four years and he always seemed to know exactly what needed to be said. He would praise us at the right time and he would chastise us at the right time. He knew where all the right buttons were that needed to be pushed. Through it all, I always knew how much he cared for us and loved us.

Off the field, I always knew I could talk with Coach about anything and I went to him often for guidance and advice. He didn't always tell me what I wanted to hear, but he did always tell me what I needed to hear. Looking back, I realize just how right he was. I came to Central as a young and sometimes foolish boy. I left Central as a man and certainly a better person because of Coach's guidance, direction, influence and compassion.

As I write this letter today, my heart is broken. We have lost a great coach, a great teacher, a great man...and for me, a second father. I am truly blessed to have known Coach Schipper and I am honored to have had the great privilege of playing for him.

In closing, I want to say "thank-you" to Joyce Schipper and the rest of the Schipper family for sharing Coach with all of us. As I hit my knees tonight, I want you to know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

God bless you Coach and I love you.

Jeff Menary ‘80
In today’s ‘me first’ world there seems to be very few people, if any, who display the honesty, integrity, and work ethic that was displayed every day during Coach Schipper’s life. One of the sharpest memories I have of Coach Schipper is my recruiting visit and the conversation we had in his office. I was a 17 year old high school senior who thought he knew everything, but actually knew nothing. When I asked about his returning linemen and if playing time was available an honest head coach stated that he didn’t know if I had what it took to be a starter on his team. How could he, I was informed, he had never seen me play and had no idea how I would compete at the division three level. He did inform that I would not find a better college to attend than Central and I would receive an outstanding education. Evaluating his comments while driving home I realized that he was the only college coach who had been 100% honest with me. If he was honest about my potential as a football player, he had to be honest about the education I would receive at Central College. My decision on which college I would attend was made at that moment.

Very few individuals practice what they preach or walk their talk. Coach Schipper did this every day of his life. I do not believe there was even the slightest possibility of him to ever doing otherwise. 36 straight winning seasons, 287 victories, the playoff games and the national championship all pale when evaluated against the number of lives positively impacted by Coach Schipper. How many of Coach Schipper’s players are better husbands, fathers, teachers, coaches, business men, or just better human beings because of knowing him and learning from him. His legacy will only continue as those positively influenced by Coach Schipper influence and assist those they work, live and interact with.

I do regret having all of my interactions with Coach Schipper solely has an 18-21 year old football player. I wish I could have played for him with the body of a college student, but with the mind of a mature adult. I would savoir every detail, ask more questions, and let nothing escape me.

Bob Schueler 83
I have been struggling over the past few days in attempting to put together in words my feelings towards Coach Schipper. Everytime that I would attempt to write something the tears would start running down my cheeks and I couldn't finish. I know this is not what Coach would expect of me, and that is why I am going to complete this now. I guess that in itself says a lot of how I felt about Coach. Over the 28 years of knowing Coach Schipper I have never wanted to let him down, or to have him feel disappointed in me. The reason for this feeling is that from the first minute I met Coach Schipper I have had a greatest respect for him as my Coach and as a man. In this world where we hear almost on a daily basis what is wrong with athletics, he was what was right with athletics. He had touched so many people over his life in such a positive way as a coach and a teacher.

I just was so shocked this past Monday when I received the e-mail of his passing. I had just spoken with him not more than two weeks prior. We had such a great conversation about what was going on in each other's lifes. When he found out that our youngest son had finally made his decision to join our oldest son at Central he asked to speak with him for a few minutes. He, in typical Skip style, congratulated my son on making his decision over that "other school". Now looking back on that I realize now how special that conversation proved to be. I didn't expect that to be our last conversation.

Over the years I have learned to appreciate more and more the things I learned from Coach Schipper. I just realized this week that I actually obtained two degrees from Central, one in business management and the other in "Life According to Schipper". Both majors have served me well. I have tried to pass along to my sons and now to my players some of the things that Coach taught me. I think the most important thing that he ever told us was contained in his "priorities" speech. "You need to set priorities in your life. Those priorities from most important to least important are: 1. Your God 2. Your family 3. Your education and 4. Your sport (or football)." I have repeated that speech numerous times, and I plan to continue to repeat it.

I will also remember just numerous miscellaneous things such as: Coach scribbling plays on any kind of paper he could get his hands on in the front row of the team bus when we traveled. Sack lunches at rest stops along the interstate to save money when we traveled to Northwestern. His booming voice, which could be heard anywhere on the practice and game fields (there was no mistake on who it was coming from). That distinct pacing of the sideline with an occasional pruning of the grass by Coach. How he would occasionally mispronounce a player's name, sometimes for the full four years the player played for him. Seeing Skip yell at a player and then reassure him after he was done that everything would be OK by putting his arm around their shoulders. How he would take blame for a defeat versus blaming his players. Most importantly how he loved his players. Those memories and many more will live with me the rest of my life.

Someday I will see Coach Schipper again, along with Dan Hocker and Bruce Wendt and others who left us too soon. I am sure we will all again run 32 drive, 30 trap, 24 power and 28 power sweep and maybe pass a little, but only if we have too.

Joyce, Tim, Sara and Thom. I want to thank you for sharing coach with my family and with us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Posted before 12:45 p.m. March 30

Mark De Cook
A tribute to Coach Schipper , a real winner:

There are so many good things one could say about Coach Schipper in terms of his overall character. From the very beginning of his career at Central, Skip emphasized what it would take to be a winner. He was 32 years old when he first coached at Central, and I had the privilege of playing for him during those first three years. I’ll never forget his first speech to his small group of football players. He said, “We’re going to win football games, and we are going to win lots of them. The reason we’re going to win is because that is the most important goal of any team. But in order to do so, we have to work harder than our opponents. And when it is time to play, we’ll play harder because we are better prepared.’ Coach Schipper was the most determined coach I have ever known and to my knowledge will be forever unsurpassed in that most important quality for any coach. Those of us who played for him will always be forever grateful for his inspiration and the high moral character he displayed throughout his life as a great coach and a dear friend.

Tim Lewis '92
It was one year ago tomorrow that I sat in a hotel conference room full of football coaches at the Iowa State Coaching Clinic in Ames, listening to Coach Schipper - the clinic's keynote speaker. For over an hour, I listened to a 76 year old, semi-retired football coach passionately talk about commitment, perseverence, pride, integrity, attitude, preparation, and the love of the game. He talked to us about the responsibility that we have as coaches to be a positive role model to our student-athletes. He spoke of his concern for the direction that youth sports is heading. He drove home how important it is to be a great Christian, a caring father, a wonderful husband, and a first class citizen. I'm not sure he mentioned anything about formations, plays, or coverages. When he was done, my heart was racing, my palms were sweating, and I had butterflies in my stomach - much like I did on a Saturday afternoon 15 years ago as a player on Coach Schipper's football team. I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Coach Schipper that evening - a conversation I will cherish forever. The following Monday, I began typing a letter to Coach letting him know how much I appreciated his lecture and how thankful I was to have had the opporunity to play for him. I was going to tell him what a huge impact he has had on my life. I wanted him to know that many of the things that I do as a high school teacher/coach - my philosophy, my coaching style, my love for the profession and the game - are due in large part to him. I also wanted Coach to know how important my marriage is to me, how much I love my kids, and how I've made being a good Christian person high on my list of priorities. I felt he should know that all of this was due in large part to him. Unfortunately, the letter never got sent. I thought I had plenty of time to get it to him. The selfish person in me asks why this had to happen to such a great man. The Christian man that Coach Schipper helped me to become - knows that answer. In his honor, I will make every attempt to do something everyday to become a better person, a better father, a better husband; I will continue to coach young people in a way that emphasizes developing the person first - knowing that if I do that, the wins will take care of themselves. Finally, I will do all I can to be an advocate for athletics and the wonderful life lessons they teach us. I challenge all of you reading this to do the same.

To Joyce and family - my heartfelt sympathy goes out to you. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You - for sharing Coach Schipper with us. Please know that his legacy lives in all of who were honored enough to know him and his convictions will be passed on for generations.

Sam De Vilder '77
Where does one begin to find the words to express the feelings one has for a great man like Coach Schipper. When I heard of his death Monday morning, I was stunned to say the least. Immediately fond, warm memories came to mind about this legend and the impact he had on my life. Coach expected a lot out of you as a young man, but he was so gracious and respectful in his efforts to bring out the best. There are so many situations/examples that I could share, but a vivid example always surfaces.

I met Coach in Jan/Feb of 1973 of my senior yr. Skip came to my high school to talk about playing football for Central. I knew I wanted to play football at the college level, but had not made up my mind at what school until Coach came into my life. What sold me on Skip was his straightforwardness and the feeling that he could be trusted. He did not promise me anything about the amount of playing time I would get, what position I would play,etc...
However, he did impress me with his honesty and told me if you give 100% in practice that I would have every opportunity to play for the "Flying Dutchmen." All the anxiety I was experiencing about college went away because I knew I could trust Coach to be there for me no matter what the situation may of been;ie classroom, campus life, football and he was!!

My father passed away when I was eight, and Coach was always there for me with love, guidance, direction and discipline(which I sorely needed).

Coach had this ability/skill to bring together 100 or more young men/teenagers from many different backgrounds with their own personal aspirations and was able to cohesively form a team/family with the goal of playing for your teammate and not be concerned with personal accolades/accomplishments. There was no "I" in Central College football.

About four to six weeks ago, I had the privilege of a phone conversation with Skip. We talked about a lot of things which included football. Coach inquired about my two sons, and wanted to know what my oldest son, Ben, was going to do regarding college. I told Coach that Ben had decided to play football at Wartburg. There was a pause in our conversation, but Coach understood why Ben elected to to choose Wartburg. I did tell Skip if he were still the coach at Central, if I had to, I would grab Ben by the ears and drag him to Pella!

Skip will always have a special place in my heart and I know that he is in Our Saviors Kingdom. He was loved and respected by many in his profession and his players.

Thank you Coach and I love ya.

Julie Burling Kirk
When I read through all the stories about Coach Schipper, the same words keep popping up--friend, coach, mentor, 100%, teacher, 2nd. Dad, legend, "always knew my name", smile, passion--he was all these and MANY more! He was not the reason I came to Central (he didn't recruit cheer-leaders) but was one of the main reasons I stayed at Central. I switched my major to PE my junior year, and I was blessed to have him for my advisor and teacher for a few classes. His 8:00 a.m. Methods class was one that I or anyone else NEVER skipped. He always made it interesting plus you just KNEW it was not an option! The countless lives that he has touched are amazing, and we have all been truly blessed to have been his player, his student, his friend! Thank you to Joyce, Tim, Sara, and Thom for letting us share his life with you. (That red Corvaire was always the first car at the gym in the morning and many times the last car there at night....) Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you and your family and Coach.

Joe Glenn (Head Football Coach at University of Wyoming)
Ron Schipper...A great coach and a great man. Much love and sympathy from all the Wyoming Cowboys.

Larry Embling '68
Go Back 42 years...a kid from New York shows up on Central's Campus for the first time; just a little scared; never been west of Buffalo, New York; never practiced football next to a cornfield; meeting guys from places that sound more like household cleaning items( What Cheer) or the wild wild west (Oskaloosa, Cherokee, or Shenandoah to name a few); wasn't sure I wanted to spend one night in this place; then I met Ron Schipper. Back then, and now, there was something special about this man. Something that made you want to be around him more than just on the football field or in the coaches meetings, or the class room, in a restuarant (well maybe not there), in church, fishing, or driving in a car (well, maybe not there either). Skip was bigger than life. He was genuine. He was real, and he was sincere. He set an example for every person whose life he touched, whether it was for an hour, a day, a year or 42.

I just finished reading The Present, by Spencer Johnson M. D. and the essence of the book is getting us to live in the present and forget wishing we had the past back, or living in the future. Ron Schipper was one who lived every moment of his existence to the fullest. He learned from his past, and he was able to master the art of giving the moment his undivided attention. As a result, I would guess that he had few regrets about the life he lived. As a husband, a father, a father in law, a grandfather, uncle, coach, teacher, or friend, he will be sorely missed. But to all he touched, his spirit will live on. And you have to believe that he is in Heaven trying to convince God that the game plan He has needs some tweaking.

To Ron, he truly laughed, loved, and lived a great life and I am truly blessed to have been "touched" by him

Posted before 10:15 p.m. March 30

Dr. Steve Perkins '01
I never had the opportunity to play for Coach Schipper during his days at Central, but he was instrumental in my choosing Central. I was fortunate enough to play for Skip when we made the European tour after my freshman year and it was such an honor to have him as our coach. I think back to my career at Central and whenever he came back to Pella to watch a game our attitudes, effort, and sportsmanship were elevated to a higher level. We wanted to be better football players and, more importantly, better men when Coach Schipper was around. He had the ability to bring out the best in all those around him. There are few people who can have that impact in this world and we were all lucky to have him on this earth for 77 years. May the Lord's peace be with you Coach and may He watch over your family during this difficult time.

Paul Aykens '63
The April 21, 1961 issue of The Central Ray had a headline article “Ronald Schipper Named Football Coach. Will Assume New Coaching Duties July 1”. As the Sports Editor of the college student publication it was my privilege interview Coach Schipper on his visit to the Central Campus. We met in the lower level of Graham Hall and I can remember that moment as though it happened yesterday. His gracious manner and “matter-of-factness” are qualities that impressed me and have stayed with me for the past 45 years. His coaching philosophy quote from that interview was “Doing as few things as possible and doing them well.” Coach Skip has left a legacy far exceeding that quote.

Bruce Scholtens '73
I remeber when I visited Central back in 1969. The first person I met was coach Schipper. He mentioned that he never recruited anyone from the city of Chicago. That alone made me feel wanted. I became the Chi-town gangster to him. We always talked about high school life in a big public city school, especially in Chicago. We had our little sayings and looks that we only knew. At that time I realized that he knew his football, but also he knew about people. Throughout my four years at Central he was always quick to suggest something, but never the one to tell you to do it. He let you make the decision. During football season there's so much to talk about, and a lot of good memories. My favorite memory was when Coach finally taught me how to play these card games. Games like pinocle, spades, hearts and others. Coach Schipper was a great frieind but most of all he was a great person.

Kenny Van Dusseldorp
I had the distinct pleasure of playing against "The Coach" has I respectively called him. Coach was a wonderful coach, leader, and Godly man. It was my pleasure to have known him and l will cherish those time for the rest of my life.

Denis Bredlow '74
Coach Schipper was the most influential non-parental person in my life. I literally owe my teaching and coaching career to him. The years I spent at Central as a student athletic trainer working with "the coach" were the most enjoyable I've ever spent. His motivation was legendary, and I use his example to this day when dealing with my students.

My prayers are with the family, God bless.

Dan Howell '58
Approximately 40 years pasted before I had the chance to visit with coach Skipper briefly at a small house party attended by the Northville (Mich) High School football team of 1958 &1959. Most of the former teammates were there. Many flew in from distant states just for this opportunity to briefly visit with our coach! We just needed to say Hi and talk over old (winning) times with the coach. It was a great evening,many stories, many laughs. I asked myself, how can one man have such a long lasting profound impact on so many lives. As I walked into my old line coaches house -Dutch VanEngans- coach Shipper approached me and said Hi Dan tell me a little bit of your life-my life I exclaimed; coach its your life we're celebrating! His reply," life is a team effort "always remember that! I will.

Great memories of a great man. Condolences to his family and his family of players & friends.

Sherma and Darrell Brand
To Joyce Schipper and Family
We were all saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Coach Schipper. We extend to all of you our sincere and heartfelt sympathy. In introspect, Sherma and I cherish the time spent with Coach Schipper and you on Sunday afternoon, March l9, 2006. It was great to sing the Central fight song to wake Coach Schipper up and then to see his reaction. Our conversation covered many topics of interest including fishing and football. Coach was his old self. We will never forget that afternoon with both of you. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you.

Terry Cooney '82
It is with great sadness I received the news about the passing of Coach Schipper. Even the not so good football players at Central, like myself, were made to feel important and cared about by the Coach. It is truly a great loss but one that the Coach himself will help fill. He mentored many would be coaches, teachers and leaders. Many of them will stand up and carry the important burden of educating young Americans in the class room and on the field.

All the best to his family and Central College.

Marc Vander Velden '00
Coach Schipper was a genuine man that signified what
every person should be. He lived his life to the
fullest and taught many people at Central College the right way to live their lives. I had the privilege of playing under Coach my freshman year. When the freshman year can be a scary thing, the Central team accepted everyone as equals. That is why we have such a tight Central family and the head of all that was Coach Schipper. He loved on everyone as equals and he got to know each player. The stories he told at practices were priceless, and the passion he had to win and be perfect impacted us even outside of football as we took that into our careers.

I was also able to experience an overseas trip to Europe with the team that he coached. I still remember the photo of coach and I soaked after we played a French team in a thunderstorm and monsoon-like rains.

While Coach Schipper is no longer here physically, in spirit he has touched many lives and his legecy will continue to touch lives. Coach Schipper will always BE Central football, and vice versa. He will be missed immensely.

Coach Schipper = CHAMPION

John and Helen Cooper
To Mrs. Ron Schipper, Tim,Sara and Thom
Please accept our deepest sympathy on the loss of a great husband, father and football coach. I had the pleasure of serving on the board of directors of The American Football Coaches Association with Ron so I have spent some great time with him. We ALL will certainly miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.