Walter David Tipton

Walter David Tipton passed from this earth on October 10, 2022 at the age of 77. He was born in Black Mountain on July 29, 1945 and lived most of his life in Asheville, North Carolina.

He was a Master Tool & Die maker and spent the majority of his career at Square D.  It was during this time that he was introduced to the Asheville Judo Club where he studied and taught.  Ultimately achieving the rank of Shodan under the tutelege of Sensei Wayne Jersey. He often said that Judo was the most challenging, rewarding, and fun thing he’d ever done. 

He was an ultimate craftsman of many talents and fields. Excelling in masonry, woodworking, painting, drawing, and metal craft. He was well known throughout Western North Carolina as an expert on Harley Davidson repair, building, and painting.  The extent of his overflowing, nearly teetering library is testament to his love of books.

David grew up in rural Black Mountain. In school he was a natural with math & science and was a lifelong reader.  In his youth, he along with his brother Kenneth, lifelong buddy Jerry Curtis, and many others collected skinned knees and grass stained tee’s while adventuring far and wide throughout the valley. Over the years his passion for animals of all types translated into having many dogs, cats, chickens, guinea pigs, owls, and a skunk were all much loved friends of his. He was always willing to step in when an animal needed rescuing.

David is survived by his cherished brother Kenneth Tipton, his cousin (who was more like a sister) Johnnie Whisnant, his children: Jeff Tipton, Julie Tipton (Alan Culbertson), Mike and wife Lisa Tipton, Rachael Tipton (Jac Cichetti, Jr.), granddaughter Chloe Tipton, and by his wife Olga Salinas Cotera.  His many dear cousins, stepchildren, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren were so very special to him.  He enjoyed all family reunions more than anyone there.  His love of genealogy brought him beloved family members that he didn’t know before. 

In lieu of flowers or arrangements, we request that you go spend time with a friend or family member that hasn’t seen you in a while, love on your pet for way too long, or a spend a sunny afternoon outside remembering a good time you spent in David’s company.

Private services will be held with the different groups of friends & family he had in his life for more personal time together. Julie Tipton will arrange future memorial plans and will be in touch.

Online condolences may be made at: www.penlandfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Penland Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Tipton family with arrangements.

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