Kaiiree Joy Elane Hippen-Stipp

Kairee Joy Elane Hippen-Stipp, of Galesburg, Illinois, affectionately known as Kai, graced this earth with her joy and smile from December 18, 2017, until September 27, 2024, dying at 4:20 a.m. alongside her father, John Stipp, II, in a house fire. Born and raised in Galesburg, Illinois, Kai left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She was blessed to have two mothers, Ami Lopez and Carolann Stipp and two fathers, John Stipp, II and Cody Hippen.

Kai is survived by her mothers, Ami Lopez and Carolann Stipp, both of Galesburg; her father, Cody Hippen of Galesburg; and her siblings, Dystiny Lopez, Justice Lopez, John Stipp, Cadence Johnson, Ellie Stipp, Zoey Stipp, Braelyn Whiting, Grace Stipp, Garrick Stipp, Ronniee Hippen-Stipp, and Zeke Hippen-Stipp all of Galesburg; Johnet Stipp of Moline, Illinois and Dakota Stipp of Chicago; her maternal grandmother, Penny Lopez of Galesburg; and her paternal grandmother, Marjorie Beaty.

A bright light in the lives of her family and friends, Kai embarked on her academic journey at Silas Willard School and continued to spread her infectious enthusiasm at Galesburg Christian School as a spirited first grader. Her passions were as vibrant as her personality; dancing and singing, her voice a tender delight to John, while her adventures on her four-wheeler were moments of pure exuberance.

Kai's love for her "corny's" (unicorns), mermaids, and camping adventures spoke to her loving, adventurous and kind spirit—a beacon of light that shone brightly. Her memory will forever be cherished as a testament to a life that, though short, was lived with boundless love and kindness.

Visitation for Kai and John will be Friday, October 4, 2024 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Their funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the funeral home, with Chaplain Jordan Knight officiating. The family requests in honor of John’s love for Harley Davidson’s, that if you have one, please ride it to the funeral. John and Kai will be buried together at East Linwood Cemetery, Galesburg. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in care of Ami Lopez or may be done through https://gofund.me/7db905cb.