NORTHWOOD — Craig Edward Zipse, a Northwood man remembered for his work ethic, devotion to family and love of fixing vehicles, has passed away.
Zipse, 63, died unexpectedly in his sleep on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at his home in Northwood. He was born on September 18, 1962, in Mason City, the son of John and Nalda Zipse.
A celebration of life service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Conner Colonial Chapel, 1008 First Avenue South in Northwood. Visitation will be held one hour before the service. According to his wishes, cremation will take place, with inurnment at a later date.
Zipse grew up in Northwood and built a life rooted in hard work, family and helping others. Over the years, he worked at Thompson’s Sawmill, spent nearly 20 years as a maintenance supervisor at Caroll George, operated a tire repair shop in Carpenter, worked as a grain operator at Grain Millers in St. Ansgar and later drove cement truck for Cemstone in Northwood.
He was known as dependable and skilled with vehicles, a man who enjoyed working on and repairing all kinds of machines.
Away from work, Zipse enjoyed grilling, gardening, driving his diesel truck, listening to old country music, hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his family. Loved ones especially remember the close bond he shared with his youngest grandson, Braxton.
He is survived by his children, Mandy Bewley, Logan Zipse, Nicole Ponce and Taylor Hansen; his grandchildren; his mother, Nalda Zipse; siblings Cliff Zipse, Melissa Heiken and Brad Zipse; along with extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, John Zipse, along with other family members.
Conner Colonial Chapel is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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