Stephen "Nip" Ray Nipper

Stephen Ray Nipper, known to everyone simply as “Nip,” passed away on May 8, 2026, just weeks shy of his 73rd birthday. He was born in Akron, Ohio, to Albert Day Nipper and Thelma Jean Macolm, Nip lived a life defined by steady patience, a positive spirit, and an ability to strike up a conversation with anyone he met.

In 1972, shortly after high school, Nip joined the U.S. Air Force. While stationed in Thailand, in a local restaurant, that he met the love of his life, Lue. She remembers him then as "tall, handsome, and with a lot of hair." They were married on May 19, 1975, and were just days away from celebrating their 51st wedding anniversary at the time of his passing. Nip served 20 years in the Air Force, a career that spanned two major conflicts. He was a veteran of both the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. His service eventually brought him to Utah, where he worked with the 388th division at Hill Air Force Base.

Life After the Air Force After retiring from the military in 1992, Nip began a second career as a custodian for the school district. He eventually retired from that role as well, trading his tools for the open road.

Nip was a man of simple pleasures and a "that’s just life" philosophy. In his younger years, you could find him fishing, bowling, or playing racquetball. In more recent years, he found his joy on the back of his Harley-Davidson, with his wife riding right there behind him. Known for his great sense of humor and non-confrontational nature, he was a favorite among the hospital nurses in his final days, simply because he loved to talk and share a laugh.

Nip is survived by his devoted wife Lue Nipper; his daughter, Stephanie (Anthony) Quintana; his stepchildren, Phonnapa Tamkathok, Araya Supadvivatphan, and Khanittha (Rawat) Korbkratoke; his four grandchildren, Elisha, Steven (Harmony), Pannisa (Nithiruj) Anicia, and Jayvn; and his three great-grandchildren, Sennen, Aria, and Octayvia. Also survived by his twin brother, Gary (Lanore) Nipper; and his sisters, Cindy Broderick and Cathy (Stanley) Vess.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Jamie Solis and his sister, Carla (Tom) Baugher.

Nip’s warmth and easygoing nature will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Friends may visit with family on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist’s Roy Mortuary, 3333 West 5600 South. Graveside services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Clinton City Cemetery, 813 North 750 West.

The family would like to thank the U of U Lung Team, Palliative Team, Pulmonary and MICU nurse for the love and exceptional care they gave Nip.