Otis Merle (Tip) Tipton; Retired Police Officer

Otis Merle (Tip) Tipton of Ventura, who retired as deputy chief of the Oxnard Police Department in 1978, died Friday in Bullhead City, Ariz., from a heart ailment. He was 69.

A native of Tennessee, Tipton was a resident of Ventura County for 67 years. He graduated from Ventura High School, earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of La Verne and a master’s degree in public administration from USC.

Tipton was a member of the Oxnard police force for 30 years, starting as a desk officer in 1948. He rose quickly through the ranks, becoming a lieutenant in little more than five years, according to department spokesman David Keith.

He was named captain in 1957 and was appointed interim police chief in 1970 after the retirement of Chief Al Jewell. He served in the post briefly until the appointment of Robert Owens as chief.

Tipton was promoted to deputy chief in 1972 and retired in 1978. As deputy chief, he managed the department’s patrol units and detectives.

“Tipton was really respected on the force,” said Oxnard Police Lt. Gordon Hubbard, who described him as an avid golfer who enjoyed learning.

Tipton is survived by his wife Wilda; a daughter, Lynda Egri of Ventura; a son, Guy Rogers of Lemoore; a sister, Phyllis Harris of Ventura, and two grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Ted M. Mayr Funeral Home in Ventura.