Charles "Kip" Kiplinger, 71, of Morgan City, Alabama, passed away on Sunday November 9, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Kip was born on January 31, 1954, in New Castle, Indiana, to Joseph and Lela Kiplinger. He was the fourth of six children.

Some of Kip's fondest childhood memories were of working on his Uncle Marvin's farm pitching hay, helping with his Uncle Kip's skeet shoots, and riding his bicycle through the Indiana countryside. He loved watching drag races—especially the funny cars—and was a lifelong fan of the Indianapolis 500. From a young age, Kip had a deep and lasting love for cars.

After high school and a time working as an automotive painter, Kip enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving as a Security Police Officer. While stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California, he met his future wife, Sandy, on a blind date. Following his four-year tour of duty, Kip began his civilian career with the Department of Defense as a Police Officer at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard. His wife described him as a sharp, intelligent man with a keen sense of humor and an unwavering dedication to his work.

In his free time, Kip enjoyed fishing, golfing, gardening, canning, grilling, and restoring cars. In 1984, he became a father—a role he cherished above all others.

Kip adored his daughter, Desiree, who described him as the kind of father she could always count on. As an athlete, she could always find him in the stands, cheering her on. Kip could build or fix anything—and if he didn't know how, he'd research until he learned. Later, he was always just a phone call away, ready to talk, listen, or simply be there. To her, he was both a protector and a safe haven.

Before the closure of Mare Island Naval Shipyard in 1995, Kip had advanced to the position of Criminal Investigator and was later transferred to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, where his family joined him. During this time, he became a specialist in computer forensics. His distinguished law enforcement career spanned 34 years. After retiring from government service, Kip continued his work in computer forensics as a private entrepreneur—consulting for various companies and eventually founding his own firm.

Alongside his professional pursuits, Kip developed a deep interest in hydroponic and aquaponic gardening. His enthusiasm for these innovative growing methods led him to create a YouTube channel, where he shared his knowledge with an enthusiastic following. Visitors from as far away as Canada came to learn from him firsthand. Later, he expanded his endeavors to include small-scale egg farming, proudly constructing what his wife fondly called "the hens' palace."

Kip's most treasured title, however, was Poppy. When his first grandchild, Kady, was born, the two were inseparable. He would sit on the back porch with baby Kady in her carrier, talking to her about his plans for the day. Together they fed the neighbors' ponies apples, mowed the lawn, tended the garden, and collected eggs from the chickens. One of his favorite memories was driving to Nashville with a very young Kady when they were pulled over for a taillight—Kady saw the flashing blue lights and exclaimed, "Poppy, what did you do?!"

When Kady's sister, Aspen, was born, the trio became three peas in a pod. Poppy took Aspen fishing, played board games (Rummikub was their favorite), and read her children's Bible stories. He never missed a dance recital or athletic event for either granddaughter. To Kady and Aspen, he was their hero—their beloved Poppy.

A proud patriot, Kip deeply loved his country. Passionate about both local and national issues, he sought to make a positive difference through civic involvement. An active Republican, he served on several committees and wrote opinion pieces for a magazine. For three years, he audited voting precincts in Morgan County and shared his findings and insights on a popular podcast that reached a wide audience.

Kip is survived by his wife of 42 years, Sandy; his daughter, Desiree Melton; son-in-law, Tyler Melton; granddaughters, Kady and Aspen; and sisters, Barbara Meade, Sarah Reiblein, Teresa Smith, and Linda Kiplinger Wittmayer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Lela Kiplinger, and his sister, Wanda Kiplinger.

Plans for Kip's Celebration of Life service are still in progress. Information will be posted on his Facebook page, Charles Kiplinger.  A Graveside Services with Military Honors provided by contigents of the United States Air Force and American Legion Post 169 will be at 10 a.m. Saturday November 22, 2025 at Lewisville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to one's favorite charitable organization or to Kip's preferred causes: the Special Olympics or Brooks High School Soccer in Killen, Alabama.