Obituary of Robert G. Shipman
Robert Garfield (Bob) Shipman, 87, of Glastonbury, beloved husband of 66 years to Nancy (Bantle) Shipman died on January 14, 2024 at Hartford Hospital. He was born on October 27, 1936 to the late George Herbert and Alice (Hollister) Shipman in Hartford. High school sweethearts, both Bob and Nancy graduated from Glastonbury High School in 1954 and the University of Connecticut in 1958, where Bob graduated with a degree in horticulture.
Bob loved his hometown of Glastonbury, where he lived his entire life, and which he dedicated to beautifying through his decades of work as a landscape designer and planter at the family business, Shipman Nursery. He was actively involved with many horticultural and civic organizations including the Connecticut Horticultural Society, the Historical Society of Glastonbury, the Service Club of Glastonbury, and the Congregational Church of South Glastonbury.
Bob served for many decades on the town’s Community Beautification Committee, working to ensure that Glastonbury’s character was preserved as it grew, and every project included trees and plantings. In retirement he, Nancy, and friends started Glastonbury Partners in Planting, and the town tree nursery, in collaboration with town and private organizations to further beautify his beloved hometown.
In addition to his loving wife, Bob is survived by his children Doug Shipman of Wethersfield, Katie Shipman and Stephen Shipman of Glastonbury, as well as grandchildren Jessica, Peyton, Kilty, Maisie, Perry, Sunil and Naveen, and great-grandchildren Emma and Owen. Bob was predeceased by his sister Nancy Shipman Coursey.
Bob Shipman will always be remembered as a kind, generous and gregarious man who loved talking with people, had many stories, and a keen sense of humor. An avid basketball player and fan, he was a life-long UCONN Huskies supporter. He enjoyed many sports, especially when he could watch a game with good company.
A private burial was held at St James Cemetery, Glastonbury. A celebration of life will occur in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Glastonbury Partners in Planting, the Historical Society of South Glastonbury, or the Congregational Church of South Glastonbury. For online condolences please visit www.mulryanfh.com.