Kirby Pines Retirement Community | The Pinecone

Emmaus Walk. They soon decided to get married which necessitated that they move to a large home to accommodate five children. Brenda had three children from a previous marriage–Stephanie, Patrick and Jason. Brenda began teaching in the school at Christ Methodist and soon became beloved as a favorite teacher to many. She remained there until her retirement. Andy worked at WTPC as an engineer for 13 years. During this time, he was the leader in setting up three new manufacturing plants in other states. He made the decision to start his own business as an independent sales representative and eventually partnered with his brother, Tommy, to form Andrew Sippel and Associates (ASA). They extended their business to include warehousing and distribution. Eventually, the business was sold, and Andy continued his career in work involving the sale of packaging materials. His first employment was with the Sternberger Company. “This was the first time I was not my own boss,” recalls Andy, “but, it was a good move.” However, Sternberger eventually sold to the Americraft Carton Company which later sold to a larger company, Graphic Packaging International, with operations in the United States and Europe. Andy remained employed through these transitions until his retirement in 2024. Andy has always been an avid sports participant and supporter. In high school and college, he played baseball and basketball. Following college, he remained active in various sports. He continues to be a strong supporter of the University of Memphis sports and those involving his grandchildren. He also became heavily involved in duck hunting during the season. For several years, he and Tommy owned property which was managed for deer and waterfowl hunting. Now, Andy says he enjoys an occasional round of golf. Prior to his retirement, Andy and Brenda decided they wanted to stay in Memphis near their family and friends. They wanted to remain independent so their children would not be burdened, and they wanted a home with less responsibility which would allow them to travel. According to Andy, “Our decision came quickly when we saw the beautiful grounds, the wide variety of activities, and met the friendly people at Kirby Pines. We always left with a warm and friendly feeling after every visit.” They moved to Kirby Pines in December 2024. Unfortunately, Brenda was diagnosed with a fast developing cancer and passed away in January 2026. Andy says, “Being at Kirby has been a blessing with the support given me since her death.” Andy is an asset to any community. He continues to be active in his adult Bible group at church and serves on several church council teams. He is very proud of his large number of grandchildren and great grandchildren and loves spending time and watching them develop. At Kirby, Andy is currently serving as the Marketing representative on the Advisory Committee; he plays bridge and belongs to the Garden and Photo Clubs. According to Andy, “I expect to become involved in other activities as time allows in the future.” Written by Joan Dodson, Resident, Kirby Pines The Pinecone | July 2026 • 7 • Residents who are involved in the activities of Kirby Pines are extremely important and appreciated. Many of the entertainment and social events as well as staffing of areas such as the library, hobby and gift shops are available due to the time and talents of the residents. Kirby was truly blessed when Andy and Brenda Sippel moved to Kirby Pines. Andy soon began volunteering and participating in several activities. According to Andy, “I like to become involved wherever I am. I don’t enjoy being idle.” Andrew Anthony Sippel is a true Memphian. He was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital (St. Francis) in 1939. His parents had moved here earlier from St. Louis, Missouri, to start a business, Western Textile Products Company (WTPC). Andy became a “big brother” when Thomas (Tommy) was born three years later. By the time Andy was ready to start school, his father had built the family a new home in the developing east Memphis area. In 1944, when he was five years old, Andy was enrolled in the Memphis State University Campus School. This school, which trained teachers in a university setting, was known as an excellent school. Andy recalls, “It was frequently referred to as a ‘training school,’ which raised a few eyebrows!” For his last three years of high school, Andy transferred to Christian Brothers High School to better prepare for his future in engineering. Fortunately, he was accepted to Georgia Technical Institute and graduated in 1962 with a B.S. in Textile Engineering which prepared him to begin work in the business his father had established. While in high school, and following his father’s death, Andy’s mother transferred their church membership to the newly formed Christ Methodist Church which was nearer to them. It was there that Andy met Pat Noel, a student at East High. They began dating, and although Pat enrolled in the University of Mississippi, their friendship blossomed, and they were married prior to Andy’s graduation from Georgia Tech. They returned to Memphis, and Andy began employment in the business his father had started twenty years earlier. Two children, Drew and D’anne, were added to the family. However, in 1978, Andy and Pat decided to end their marriage. Andy said the next few years were focused on getting Drew and D’anne through “Ole Miss!” In 1985, Andy met Brenda Tate when she transferred membership to Christ Methodist Church and joined the Lamplighter class. They began dating, and together they attended the church retreat known as A LWAY S S TAY I NG AC T I V E Resident Spotlight: Andy Sippel Andy’s Graduation 1962