Cyril Joe Nipper, affectionately known as “CJ” to his family and friends, was born on December 1, 1932, in Belgrade, Missouri, a son of the late Hurst Nipper and Ethel (Jenkins) Nipper. CJ departed this life on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the age of 93.

Raised in Belgrade as one of seven children, CJ attended school there and graduated in 1950. On October 8, 1952, he proudly joined the United States Navy and served his country during the Korean War until his honorable release on September 20, 1956.

After returning home from his military service, CJ married Bonnie Wilborn on May 25, 1957, in Belgrade, Missouri. Together, they shared 69 years of marriage, building a family and raising their two daughters, Carla Jo and Tracey Lynn.

CJ was a laid-back, easygoing man who could always be counted on to share a funny joke and bring a smile to those around him. He had a love for music and enjoyed tinkering with guitars, playing music, and singing old country songs. He especially enjoyed spending time at various senior centers, where he could share his music and his love of entertaining others.

His interests extended well beyond music. CJ enjoyed stock car racing, riding motorcycles, and following baseball, with a special place in his heart for the St. Louis Cardinals. He and Bonnie treasured their travels to Branson, where they enjoyed attending shows, camping, and taking in the sights. CJ also enjoyed talking with others on his CB radio, where he was known by his familiar handle, “Guitar Man.”

CJ will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 69 years, Bonnie Nipper of Potosi; his two daughters, Carla Jo Richards of Potosi and Tracey Lynn Isidro (husband, Freddy) of DeSoto; his two grandsons, Victor Isidro (wife, Kimberly) and Andres Isidro; his great-granddaughter, Luisa Claire Isidro; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will treasure the memories they shared with him.

In addition to his parents, CJ was preceded in death by his six siblings: George (Edith) Nipper, Erma (Charles) Boyer Hudson, Bernell Nipper, James (Melba) Nipper, Deloris (Rev. Lawrence) Akers, and Margaret (Clyde) Nipper; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bill and Ruby Walker; as well as dear brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and other beloved relatives.

CJ leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, laughter, music, family, and service to his country. His easygoing nature, quick sense of humor, and love for the simple joys of life will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A time of visitation will be held Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. and continue until the time of his funeral service at 1:00 p.m., held in the DeClue Chapel.

Interment and final prayers will be held at Bismarck Masonic Cemetery. CJ will receive full military honors presented by the United States Navy and VFW Post 6947.

Funeral arrangements have been respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.