John Joseph Kipp

Asheville- John Joseph Kipp, 73, of Asheville, died Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Mission Hospital.

A native of Rhinebeck, NY, he was a son of the late Jack R. Kipp and Patricia (Kaeser) Kipp-White.

John had a long history of teaching. He began his teaching career in Baltimore teaching elementary school. He was then hired by the United States Department of Defense Dependent Schools (DODDS) system to teach elementary school, specializing in teaching the talented and gifted students at Frankfurt Elementary School in Germany and later at Atsugi Naval Base in Japan.

John was an avid traveler and traveled to many European countries. When stationed in Japan, John likewise traveled to numerous locations in Asia. John was known by his friends to be a “foodie.” He traveled to many countries for ethnic restaurants and fine dining. He introduced many of his friends to widely recognized Michelin restaurants wherever he traveled.

John had much love for arts and entertainment. From craftwork, to fine arts, music, and Broadway productions, he loved them all and could readily discuss them all intellectual acuity.

Johns’ greatest passion was reading where as he amassed books on art, poetry, history, religion and spirituality, and many other subjects which filled the selves of every room in his home.

Humor was a large part of who John was and he was known for his “quick Kipp quips,” which he delivered at lightning speed, sometimes with a hint of sarcasm.

Many charities which reflected his interests and ideals benefited yearly from his contributions.

John will be missed and grieved dearly. As Queen Elizabeth II had once stated: Grief is the price you pay for Love.

John is survived by his husband, Morito Suzuki; two brothers, Kevin Kipp (Denise) and Dr. Gary Kipp (Paula) as well as two nieces and one nephew.

A Celebration of John’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, March 6, 2026 at Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road. The family will have a reception following at the funeral home until 4:00 PM.

Burial will take place at a later date in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Rhinecliff, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you please donate to your local Library, favorite cancer research organization or cancer support hospital.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.