JoEllen Lippitt

JoEllen (Jo) McDonald Lippitt, born November 14th, 1954, passed away August 10th, 2025 after a valiant battle with pulmonary fibrosis. She fought until her very last breath which was emblematic of how she lived her life.

She is survived by her husband of 45 years, James Lippitt; her three children, Jennifer Wenkel (Andy), Kristin Lippitt, and W. Morgan Lippitt (Austin Hook); and grandchildren, Jack and Emery Wenkel. She is also survived by her siblings, Maureen Belanger, LeeAnn McDonald, and John McDonald. She is preceded in death by her sister, Lynn McDonald and parents John and Margaret McDonald.

Jo grew up in Minneapolis and spent most of her life in Minnesota with a handful of memorable years in upstate New York. She channeled her enthusiasm for caring for others into a fulfilling nursing career which ultimately gave her the expertise she needed to navigate her own disease and champion for the best medical care.

Jo’s zest for life was unwavering. Feisty and spirited, she had a passion for the holidays and loved any excuse for a celebration. Inclusive to her core, she championed the underdog, welcomed strangers as friends, and made every guest feel like family.

She was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis over a decade ago & outlived her life expectancy multiple fold. She fought for a lung transplant, entered a clinical trial, and never ceased advocating for her life. Her legacy is one of determination and strength. The void she left will be felt by all those who knew her.

A celebration of life event will be held in October. Details to follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation to advance research and honor her courageous spirit. You can donate directly on her behalf or donate through our family’s team page for the organization’s upcoming September Walk in Chicago. Lippitt Family Team - Fibrosis Walk.

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