Wilfred Douglas Hipps, "Doug", age 73, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital.

Doug was born on December 3, 1952, in Waynesboro, Tennessee, while his mother was traveling from their home in Alabama. He was the beloved son of the late Hazel and William Hipps.

Doug dedicated more than 30 years of service to MAC Valves, Inc., where he worked primarily as a data processor before his retirement. He was known for his strong work ethic, technical abilities, and quiet dependability.

A man of many interests and talents, Doug had a lifelong passion for automobiles, especially classic muscle cars. He enjoyed working on cars of all kinds and took pride in understanding how things worked. He also achieved the rank of Second-Degree Black Belt and spent time teaching karate, sharing his discipline and knowledge with others.

In his younger years, Doug enjoyed playing racquetball with family and friends and was an avid guitar player and singer. Music brought him great joy, and he performed in a band during his youth. He also loved the outdoors, owning horses and spending many happy hours riding trails.

Doug served his country after being drafted into the United States Army. Following the conclusion of the Vietnam War, he was stationed in Germany, where he honorably fulfilled his military service.

Above all else, Doug was devoted to his family. He was a proud grandfather who spent countless hours caring for his grandchildren during their early years. He loved playing with them, often energetically enough to get them squealing. His grandchildren will forever cherish the memories of his playful spirit, love, and attention.

Doug and his beloved wife, Beth, shared many special traditions together. One of their favorites was an annual trip to Pentwater, Michigan, where they would stay at a bed and breakfast and enjoy time together along the lakeshore. These trips became treasured memories that reflected their deep love and companionship.

Doug also enjoyed returning to Alabama to visit family and reconnect with his roots. Whether spending time with loved ones, working on a car, playing music, or enjoying the outdoors, he approached life with enthusiasm and a genuine appreciation for the people around him.

Doug will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, many talents, and the love he shared with his family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Doug is the loving husband of Beth for 47 years; beloved father of Jennifer King (Keith) and Laurie Neiter (Jeff); dearest grandfather of Michaela, Cody, Logan, Eve, Zachary and Simon; fondest brother of Cathy Gomes, Sheila Chaldekas and Susan Lindgren, and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

The Hipps family will receive guests Friday, June 5, 3-7 pm at the funeral home.

A funeral Mass celebrating Doug will be held Saturday, June 6, 10 am, St. Joseph Catholic Church, 3521 4th St, Wayne, MI.  A rosary service will take place Saturday at church during the in-state period beginning at 9:30 am.

All family and friends are invited to meet Doug's family at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery immediately following the Mass, where committal prayers will be said and Army military honors will be rendered.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Childrens Hospital , using the link provided.

Please keep the Hipps family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.