Gage Animal Hospital

Dear Clients and Friends of Dr. Shipman,

With great sorrow, I regret to inform you of Dr. Shipman’s passing. He died peacefully at home on June 14, 2023 surrounded by his family and pets.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/kansascity/name/robert-shipman-obituary?id=52258980

Rob dedicated his life to caring for and healing animals; and his unwavering commitment to the well-being of pets and wildlife alike was extraordinary. His passion, expertise, and compassion touched all of our lives, and he will be sorely missed.

I want to express my deep gratitude for the generous outpouring of support in the form of your Facebook posts, letters, emails, and calls. Rob truly enjoyed hearing the stories many of you shared, and would often remember the names of pets he treated even decades ago. Each sentiment brought a smile to his face, and some prompted further recordings for his book, which I will continue to work on.

You have all meant so very much to Rob. My family and I are deeply thankful for your role in making his life's work so joyful.

A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, June 19, 2023, at 10:30 am at St Gregory’s Catholic Church in Marysville . A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, July 16, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Kay McFarland Japanese Garden in Topeka.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northeast Kansas Wildlife Rescue, PO Box 312, Silver Lake, KS, 66539.

With heartfelt regards,
Kate Shipman and Family

Robert Shipman Obituary (1947 - 2023) - Overland Park, KS - Kansas City Star View Robert H. Shipman Jr., D.V.M.'s obituary, send flowers and sign the guestbook.

A message from Dr. Shipman:

Dear Clients and Longtime Friends,

Forty-six years ago in May, I graduated from veterinary school and began my career with Dr. Alan Bradbury at Gage Animal Hospital. Every single day of those 46 years, I have felt truly blessed to be able to do the work I loved in the place I loved.

It is with great sadness that I write this letter. I have a terminal illness, stage IV renal cancer, that has progressed to the point that there is no hope of my return to practice. In April, out of concern for family, I made the difficult decision to arrange the sale of Gage. This past Monday, Gage was purchased by the Drs. Bob and Joy Thayer. You may have met them. They are employed at Emergency Animal Clinic of Topeka as Managers/Veterinarians.

Over the years, I have built a strong bond with you and your pets. I have shared in the joy of new puppies and kittens, celebrated the milestones of your beloved animals, and mourned the loss of those who, at best, have lives too short in proportion to human lifespan. Truly, I have felt honored to care for your dearest of dogs and cats, and to be a part of their lives.

I am filled with gratitude for the trust and support you have shown me. The relationships we have built have been the highlight of my career and I will cherish them always.

I understand this news may come as a shock to some of you, and I apologize for any distress this may cause. Know that the memories we shared, of your dogs, cats, and wildlife, will remain in my heart forever.

I have settled down to write a book about the many animals you have loved, and I have cared for, these many years. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives and for giving me the opportunity to care for your beloved animals. It has been a privilege and an honor.

I would love to hear from you. You may text me at 785-256-0598; email me at [email protected], or send correspondence to PO Box 23566, Overland Park KS, 66283.

Sincerely,

Dr. Shipman