Robert "Gene" Phipps, 79, passed away Wednesday, November 20, 2019 in Fort Wayne. He was born in Monticello, KY to the late Odie and Wilma Phipps . Gene worked as a teacher for 35 years, working 31 years with Fort Wayne Community Schools. He was a member of Blackhawk Ministries, and the Indiana Two Steppers and Mavericks later becoming a line dance instructor. Gene was also a member of the Retired Indiana Teacher's Association, American Vocational Association, Indiana Vocational Association, and most recently a member of the Tree Lakes Resort of Palmetto, FL. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Marie Phipps of Fort Wayne; children, Curt Phipps of Fort Wayne, Wayne (Tammy Jo) Phipps of Fishers, IN, and Teresa (Greg) Bronkema of New Bremen, OH; 8 grandchildren; and 1 great-granddaughter. Service is 11:00 am, Saturday, November 23, 2019 at Blackhawk Ministries, 7400 E. State Blvd., with calling one hour prior. Calling also Friday, November 22, 2019 at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton St, from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Memorials may be made to Blackhawk Ministries or the American Cancer Society. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com.