BARRY’S BAY – Despite seeing the horrors of war decades ago, a local man is leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.
Ninety-year-old Stanley Chippior was a World War II veteran and a well-respected community member. After his recent passing, family and friends gathered on June 17 at St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church in Barry’s Bay for their loved one’s funeral.
Stanley was born in Wilno to parents Martin and Rose Chippior (nee Blank.) He was one of six children.
In his early twenties, he enlisted in the 2nd Canadian Corps, where he served for four years. He was following in the courageous footsteps of his brother, Florian Frank Chippior, who served in World War II in the Highland Light Infantry of Canada, but died at age of 23.
Stanley served during the late years of war and in 1944, he travelled and fought through France, Belgium and Holland. He was one of many soldiers who helped open the route into northeastern Holland, which eventually led to the liberation of Holland from the Germans. It was a historic moment too, as it was the first time in history that two Canadian corps fought side by side.
During his time in Holland, Stanley and three other soldiers lived with the Zutphen family for months. According to the Chippior family, Stanley often talked about how good these people were to him. In fact, the families remained close after Zutphen made contact with Stanley several years ago.
Story continues in the June 19, 2013 issue of The Valley Gazette.