Donald V. Nippert, known to his friends simply as "Nip," passed away at the age of 91 in his beloved hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. A Cincinnati native who lived here nearly his entire life, Don's heart belonged to two things above all: his family and the sky.

He first left home to serve his country in the United States Navy. His love of flying began humbly and joyfully, towing advertising banners behind biplanes, and he never lost his taste for the pure fun of it, landing seaplanes on the Ohio River just for the thrill of touching down on the water. From those early days he built a life in aviation that would span more than five decades.

Don flew as a captain for USAir for 35 years, piloting international flights across the world, with the Boeing 767 and 777 his favorites to command. When his airline career ended, his love of flying did not. He went on to fly private jets for another 20 years. In a career few could match, he earned certifications not only for commercial and private aircraft, but for helicopters, blimps, and hot air balloons, and reached the highest level of certification as a flight instructor, passing his craft on to others.

In recognition of a lifetime devoted to aviation and safety, Don received the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, the highest honor the FAA and Department of Transportation bestow, for 50 years of service. He was also a proud member of the Quiet Birdmen, the storied fraternal order of aviators.

But those who knew Don knew that his accomplishments never changed the man. He was known for his deep faith in God, his kindness, his generosity, and his devotion to his family. He liked to say that it was important not to worry, and to have fun in life, because otherwise, what was the point? He felt most free with his hands on the controls and the clouds all around him.

Don was the loving husband of the late Genia D. Nippert, his wife of 56 years. He was the devoted father of Desiree (Bob) Hamilton, Michael Nippert, Steve (Della) Nippert, and Victoria Nippert; the beloved grandfather of Eric, Zachary, Stephen, Gabriel, Maxx, and David; and a proud great-grandfather.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church, 2420 Drex Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45212. Interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Pilots to the Rescue (https://www.pilotstotherescue.org/)

Blue skies and tailwinds, Captain. You're clear to land.