Tipton "Tip" Craig Kindel

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Tipton "Tip" Craig Kindel on February 28, 2025, in Sacramento, California, at the age of 81.

Born on October 11, 1943, in Kankakee, Illinois, Tip spent his early years in Terre Haute, Indiana, and Phoenix, Arizona. He pursued his passion for journalism at Indiana State Teacher's College (now Indiana State University), earning a degree in the field. His broadcasting career began at WISH-TV in Indianapolis, before his dislike of cold winters led him west. After a brief stay in Denver, he settled in Sacramento in the early 1970's.

In Sacramento, Tip joined KCRA Channel 3 as a news reporter and later served as News Director at Channel 40 before returning to KCRA. In 1988, he transitioned to public service as the Public Information Officer for the California Department of Corrections and worked as a media consultant for the Bureau of Federal Prisons. His career took him across the globe, including Europe, Hong Kong, China, Korea, Grenada, and even Antarctica.

Beyond journalism, Tip had a deep love for music and played the trumpet in numerous bands and symphonies. A dedicated Freemason, he attained the degree of Master Mason and was a member of Shriners Hospital International, performing with the Shrine Band. Honoring his passion for music education, his trumpets will be donated to local elementary schools. He also enjoyed technology, stained glass art, and working in his garage.

Tip and his Wife Claire enjoyed boating and wine tasting, which evolved into many lasting friendships with local area vintners. They also enjoyed watching old movies from Tip's personal collection, at home with their fuzzy rescues Cassie, Lexi, and Bailey.

Tip is survived by his wife of 46 years, Claire Ruth; his children Tipton Craig Jr., Brett Allyn, Kimberly Dawn, and Cherie Beth (George); grandchildren Tipton (Melissa), Samuel (Casey), Addison, Kristin (Michael), Lisa (Dallas); and great-grandchildren Carson, Nathan, Cooper, Oscar, Louie, Sally, and Allyn. He was predeceased by his parents Henry Tipton Kindel and Pansy Evelyn Kindel (McClure).

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 19, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Ben Ali Shrine, 3262 Marysville Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95815. Guests are encouraged to wear tropical attire since Tip loved his vast collection Hawaiian shirts.

In lieu of flowers, it was Tip's wish that donations be made to Shriners Hospital for Children Northern California or the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.