Robert John Tippett

Robert John Tippett, 78, of Harbor Springs, Michigan died February 8th, 2026, at Pineview Cottage in Harbor Springs.

Bob was born in Petoskey on May 6th, 1947, to Marion Tippett and Merlyn (Ries) Tippett. He grew up in Harbor Springs and attended Harbor Springs High School and graduated in 1965.  After school he joined the Army where he was a member of the 82nd Airborne marching band.  Marching in parades and playing for Army brass and dignitaries.  He then received orders to Vietnam.  He transferred to the 173rd Airborne and spent 16 months there.

After returning home he attended Northern Michigan University.  He met and married Davine Montagna in Marquette, Mi., and later moved west to Salt Lake City. Bob divorced, and went back to school and became a Gemologist, working in the jewelry business for many years.

After many years in the business, he finally retired from Overstock.com where he appraised jewelry.  Later, he moved south to Washington, UT.  He loved to host family and friends from Michigan and show them western life. He would say “Come on out, we can ski in the morning and play golf in the afternoon."

Bob is survived by his brother Den (Kathy) Tippett, and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was proceeded in death by his parents Merlyn and Marion Tippett, and brother Tom (Teresa) Tippett.

A family gathering to celebrate Bobs life will be held at a later date.