May 13, 1954 – March 25, 2025
SOUTHERN SHORES — Kevin George Vipavetz, affectionately known as “Vip,” of Southern Shores, NC, passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on May 13, 1954, in Charleston, SC, Kevin lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his faith, and his work.
A man of exceptional intellect and achievement, Kevin held multiple bachelor’s degrees and served as a Senior Systems Engineer for NASA at Langley Research Center. His remarkable career included serving as the lead engineer for the Ares 1-X project which successfully launched on October 28, 2009. He had a project on the Space Shuttle Discovery, he was the Spectrum Manager for NASA at Langley, and he most recently worked on the Gateway Program. His contributions to space exploration were significant and left an indelible mark on the field.
Vip was also deeply committed to his community and faith. As a member of All Saints Episcopal Church, he served as the co-chair of the Holly Days Craft Festival, the largest craft fair on the Outer Banks. He generously shared his knowledge by teaching classes in the After Dark Program, with all proceeds directed to charity. Kevin’s commitment to his faith extended further as he founded the Men’s Fellowship group at his church, embodying his immense kindness and generosity.
Preceded in death by his parents, Merilyn Olson Vipavetz and George Frank Vipavetz; son-in-law, Michael Hall; and a nephew, Kevin leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth. He was a beloved and devoted husband to his wife, Carol Ledgley Vipavetz, a hero to his daughter, Stacey Hall of Powhatan, VA, and a champion to his three grandchildren, Tristen, Jamie, and Haydon Hall. He is also survived by his sister, Kimlyn Fasso (Edward) of Seattle, WA; two brothers, Steven Vipavetz (Maureen) of Silver Spring, MD, and Kristofer Vipavetz (Gretchen) of Brooklyn, NSW, Australia; and five nieces and nephews.
A service to celebrate Vip’s beautiful life will be held at a later date at All Saints Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to All Saints Episcopal Church for the restoration of the labyrinth, honoring Kevin’s enduring commitment to his community and faith.
Kevin’s life was a testament to his devotion to family, his church, and his work. He was loved deeply and will be missed profoundly, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
