Claudia J Schipper

MADISON - Claudia Jean Schipper, graced this world with her presence on July 16, 1939, in Atlantic, IA. Her journey came to a peaceful close on May 11, 2024, in Madison, WI, surrounded by the love of her family.

Claudia was a beacon of intelligence, passion, and love throughout her 84 years of life. Her radiant spirit and warm laughter touched the lives of all who knew her. Born to parents R. Wayne and Reeva (Ramsey) Flick, Claudia grew up with a foundation of care and kinship, which she extended generously to everyone in her life. She was a devoted sister to her brother, Charles and sister-in-law, Janet Flick; and was loved by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins. Her life was enriched with the bond shared with her son, Jon and daughter-in-law, Jessica Schipper; and her deeply treasured grandchildren, Jacob, Joseph, Samuel and Max Schipper.

Claudia's spirit of giving and education persisted through her work. A dedicated educator, her career path took her across several state lines, from Iowa to Arizona. Claudia's early years were spent as a teacher in Illinois, Minnesota and Iowa, and her greatest adventure started as a civilian worker on an Army base in Germany, a chapter during which she met Roy Schipper, her future husband and father to her sons, Jon and Chris. Upon their return to the United States, Claudia transitioned into raising her family, yet her passion for teaching continued to flourish. She began as an elementary substitute teacher in Madison, eventually assuming a full-time role at Schenk Elementary School, where she touched the lives of countless children.

A woman of diverse interests, Claudia had a profound love for music. She studied piano and clarinet throughout her years and also performed with the Sweet Adelines choral group in which she shared her musical gifts and charmed many with her melodic voice. Her affinity for learning and the arts persisted through her enjoyment of reading books, especially legal thrillers and the relaxation she found while listening to books on tape and coloring. Claudia also enjoyed swimming and the camaraderie of card games like bridge and pinochle.

She was preceded in death by her cherished son, Christopher J. Schipper; her parents; and the untimely loss of her grand-niece, Charlize Whitney Flick. Each of these losses deeply felt, yet Claudia carried on with unwavering strength and love.

Claudia's legacy as an intelligent, passionate, and loving individual will live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew her. Her contributions as an educator, her devotion as a family member, and her fervor for life will always be remembered and cherished. Her light will continue to shine brightly through the lives of those she touched.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Friday.  

Memorials may be made to the Claudia Jean Schipper Memorial Fund.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420