Joseph C. Shipley

Joseph C. “Joe” Shipley, of Saint Charles, MO, passed away Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at the age of 88. Beloved husband of 39 years to Tammy Shipley; cherished son of the late Nelle (Lynn)Michael and John Shipley; son-in-law of Pat (the late Edward) Bahr; brother-in-law of Gary Bahr; dear brother, uncle, cousin and friend to many. 

Joe was drafted by the Chicago White Sox when he was 17, he was then traded to the San Francisco Giants in 1958, where he played on the first team that ever played in San Francisco. After some time, he was then transferred to the St. Louis Cardinals where he participated in many Spring Trainings. He had a lashing sidearm motion and his fastball dances when they approached the plate were unparalleled.  

After he retired as a ballplayer, Joe started working at General Motors and eventually Station Casinos, also known as Ameristar, when it was established in 1994, for over 25 years as a security guard. He was a member of the Have Bible Will Travel Church for over 20 years and was an Army Veteran. In his free time, you could find Joe tending to his garden and yard, drawing and spending time BBQing with family and friends. He was also an avid golfer and dedicated contributor to Special Olympics where he met Tammy. Joe will be remembered for his charismatic personality and unending kindness. Joe was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 

Memorials may be made in Joe’s name to Special Olympics.