Joseph “Hip” Gerard Hipschen passed away on March 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, strength, and stories that will be told for generations. Born on July 26, 1957, to Raymond and Marjorie Hipschen, Joe lived life the way he wanted — a true sportsman, a friend-proclaimed (and widely agreed upon) king of the wild frontier. He felt most at home under open skies, in the woods at dawn, or casting a line into quiet waters.

Around the card table, he was sharp, strategic, and just unpredictable enough to keep everyone on their toes. Whether he was winning the hand or playfully debating the rules, the real prize was always the time spent together. And through it all, there was Joe’s huge, unmistakable laugh — the kind that filled a room, lifted spirits, and made everyone feel like they belonged.

A 1975 graduate of Marquette High School, Joe’s work included positions with John Deere before devoting himself to construction in the local area as a member of the Chicago Regional Carpenter’s Union. He also proudly served in theArmy National Guard from 1975 to 1981.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and the love of his life and wife, Kay (Miller) Hipschen, as well as Kay’s beloved son, Josh Miller. He is survived by his nine siblings, Michael (Nora) Hipschen, Thomas (Pattee) Hipschen, Anne (Garth) Docherty; Catharine (Thomas) Murray, James (Cindy) Hipschen, Marylou(Lee) Wheeler; John Hipschen; Sue Hipschen (Larry Doland); and Amy (Brian) Bristow; nieces and nephews: Christopher (Liza) Hipschen, Christiana Hipschen, Rebecca (Joel) Richardson, Eliza Hipschen, Jessalyn (Cody) Roberdeau, Jamie (Hailey) Hipschen, and Hunter Hipschen; great nieces and nephews: Alex Hinke, Sofia Hinke, Henry Hipschen, Jettie Hipschen, Sarah Hipschen, Lydia Richardson, Ruth Richardson, Winn Roberdeau, and Nash Roberdeau; Kay’s children: Jennie(John) Hager, Jiah (Todd) Sieverding and daughter-in-law, Trina Miller; and grandchildren, Kourtney Hoppenjan, Kailey (Ty) Parker, Aubrie (Bryce) Lafrenz, Austin Hager, Aunika Hager, Brexley Sieverding, Atlee Sieverding and Brecken Sieverding. The bonds he shared with his family were lifelong and steadfast, built on love, loyalty, and countless shared memories.

A memorial service will be planned at a later date to celebrate Joe’s life and the many stories he leaves behind.

Joe’s spirit lives on in every early morning hunt, every quiet cast of a fishing line, every well-played hand of cards, and every story punctuated with laughter. He will be deeply missed, fiercely loved, and forever remembered.

Rest easy, King of the Wild Frontier.

Private Graveside Services will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com