Frank Ellis Zipperer Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Frank Ellis Zipperer, LTC. Ret., age 84, of Asheville passed away at Mission Hospital on January 6th, 2022. Frank was born May 15th, 1937, in Savannah, GA to Retherford Ernest Zipperer and Mildred Juanita Sturgeon, both of whom preceded him in death, as did his brother, David Blanton Zipperer. Frank attended North Charleston High School Class of 1955 and received a degree in Industrial Management from Auburn University 1961 as well as an MBA in Information Technology from George Washington University 1973. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the U.S. Army after 20 years with two tours in Vietnam as a decorated helicopter pilot and instructor, and as a Systems Analyst at the Pentagon. From 1981-2010 he was co-owner/operator at Effinar Studios Hair Care in Arlington, VA. Frank moved to Asheville, NC and in 2010 he started Frank Zipperer Photography where he was owner/photographer until 2020. Frank enjoyed documenting the music and food scene there. Frank is survived by his husband and partner of 46 years, Rick Wood, daughter, Vicki Scott (Mike), son, Frank Zipperer Jr. (Maria), previous spouse, Joyce Zipperer, grandchildren; Cory (Sam), Kelly (Andrew), Tristan, Vincent and Frank III, great grandchildren; Samuel, Isaac, and Maple, sister-in-law, Pat Wood, brothers-in-law; Matt Wood and Gene Wood (Lynn), nieces; Wendy (Tom), Lenah (Mark), nephews; Justin, Ben and Stan, great-nieces; Abby, Alivia and Zoe. Frank is much loved, appreciated, and missed by all. A music tribute is planned for May in Asheville, internment at Arlington Cemetery at a later date. Donations in honor of Frank may be made to an LBGTQ+/art or music/philanthropic organization of your choice. Morris Funeral Home & Cremation Care is serving Frank's family and condolences and remembrances may be sent to them at www.morrisfamilycare.com.

Tributes

Frank Ellis Zipperer

May 15, 1937 - January 6, 2022