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ROBERT MEGILL CHIPMAN  Obituary pic ROBERT MEGILL CHIPMAN  Obituary pic

ROBERT MEGILL CHIPMAN

Born: Aug 03, 1926

Date of Passing: Sep 09, 2013

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ROBERT MEGILL CHIPMAN August 3, 1926 - September 9, 2013 Peacefully at home, on September 9, 2013, Robert Chipman died as he chose to live, surrounded by family in the city he loved. He was 87. RM was born to Robert and Natalie Chipman (Megill) on August 3, 1926 in Calgary, Alberta. The family moved to Kenora and then to Winnipeg where the young RM began his lifelong love of hockey, tending net with magazines taped to his shins. RM met Sheila at a CYO dance at St. Ignatius Church and knew right away this was "a special lady". Together they raised four children, and shared a marriage that spanned almost 60 years. RM cherished hard work, humility, reciprocity, and altruism, in principle and in practice, in professional as well as in personal life. His modesty was bottomless, and - though you'd never hear it from him - the breadth of his accomplishments were tremendous. With himself alone for a cornerstone, he built so much from so little, by building what he believed in. RM was the sort of rare fellow who could harness commercial opportunity for civic benefit, growing businesses and communities alike. He believed one could do well by doing good. Over the years, RM served on most of Winnipeg's major boards, including the United Way, Manitoba Theatre Centre, Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Winnipeg Foundation, Winnipeg Enterprise, as well as the Royal Bank of Canada. He was inducted into the Citizens Hall of Fame in 2007. RM counted himself lucky; we count ourselves lucky to have known him. He was a husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor. He was a man of faith, man for others, committed philanthropist, and A1 golfer. He was a spotless sartorialist and an inveterate green thumb. Amid the bees he was so allergic to, he planned and planted seeds. He encouraged us to garden. He was a special guy. RM is predeceased by his wife Sheila, brother Peter, and sister Diane. He is remembered by his children Stephen (Ruth), Susan (James), Mark (Patti), and Jeoff (Nancy), and his grandchildren Timothy, Kevin, Brian, Christopher, Patrick, Johanna, Tod, Sarah, Anne, Mary, Stephanie, Katie and Melinda, and his sister Marilyn Jackson and her family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or to the Holy Name House of Peace. Special thanks to Dr. Al Schroeder and the staff at CancerCare Manitoba. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Ignatius Church on Friday, September 13 at 10:30 a.m. corner of Stafford and Corydon. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com
Publish Date: Sep 12, 2013

ROBERT MEGILL CHIPMAN August 3, 1926 - September 9, 2013 Peacefully at home, on September 9, 2013, Robert Chipman died as he chose to live, surrounded by family in the city he loved. He was 87. RM was born to Robert and Natalie Chipman (Megill) on August 3, 1926 in Calgary, Alberta. The family moved to Kenora and then to Winnipeg where the young RM began his lifelong love of hockey, tending net with magazines taped to his shins. RM met Sheila at a CYO dance at St. Ignatius Church and knew right away this was "a special lady". Together they raised four children, and shared a marriage that spanned almost 60 years. RM cherished hard work, humility, reciprocity, and altruism, in principle and in practice, in professional as well as in personal life. His modesty was bottomless, and - though you'd never hear it from him - the breadth of his accomplishments were tremendous. With himself alone for a cornerstone, he built so much from so little, by building what he believed in. RM was the sort of rare fellow who could harness commercial opportunity for civic benefit, growing businesses and communities alike. He believed one could do well by doing good. Over the years, RM served on most of Winnipeg's major boards, including the United Way, Manitoba Theatre Centre, Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Winnipeg Foundation, Winnipeg Enterprise, as well as the Royal Bank of Canada. He was inducted into the Citizens Hall of Fame in 2007. RM counted himself lucky; we count ourselves lucky to have known him. He was a husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor. He was a man of faith, man for others, committed philanthropist, and A1 golfer. He was a spotless sartorialist and an inveterate green thumb. Amid the bees he was so allergic to, he planned and planted seeds. He encouraged us to garden. He was a special guy. RM is predeceased by his wife Sheila, brother Peter, and sister Diane. He is remembered by his children Stephen (Ruth), Susan (James), Mark (Patti), and Jeoff (Nancy), and his grandchildren Timothy, Kevin, Brian, Christopher, Patrick, Johanna, Tod, Sarah, Anne, Mary, Stephanie, Katie and Melinda. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or to the Holy Name House of Peace. Special thanks to Dr. Al Schroeder and the staff at CancerCare Manitoba. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Ignatius Church on Friday, September 13 at 10:30 a.m. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com
Publish Date: Sep 11, 2013

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 12, 2013

Condolences & Memories (52 entries)

  • This is a man that you could judge by the content of his heart not the size of his wallet. Humble and in every case a man to be loved and appreciated by the legacy left behind (if you know his children you will know the man). Well done good and faithful servant, take now thy rest for you certainly did it the right way. - Posted by: nic orr (business partner) on: Dec 17, 2014

  • I was so saddened to hear today of the passing of Mr. Chipman. As a classmate and friend of son Geoff, I was fortunate to have met Mr. Chipman on many occasions. When the Chipman Family secured the Winnipeg Jets, I spoke to friends with great pride that if there was ever a family to carry the Winnipeg banner to the world, it would be the Chipmans. To Geoff, Mark, Steven and Susan, may you find comfort in family, friends, faith, and the memories of a very special human being...your Dad. Mannie Buzunis, West Vancouver, BC (classmate/friend of Geoff, St Pauls '71) - Posted by: Mannie Buzunis (St. Pauls Class '71 with son Geoff) on: Sep 20, 2013

  • As a former employee of the Birchwood Automotive Group, I was saddened to hear of Mr Chipmans passing and wish to give my heartfelt condolences to the family and Automotive Group. I had the pleasure of being an employee for many years and recall with fondness RM's many wonderful attributes. May He Rest in Peace and may all his family and friends take comfort in all the wonderful memories he left. - Posted by: Carol Cox (Business) on: Sep 18, 2013

  • Deepest Sympathies to the Chipman Family. I workied for Birchwood GM thru the 90's and had the pleasure of working for RM. He was always positive and upbeat. The one thing that I have always remembered about RM, once he met you once he always remembered you. He will be missed. - Posted by: Garry Rosenthal (Former employee) on: Sep 17, 2013

  • Although I did not know Robert Chipman personally, he was admired by his many friends on Longboat Key, Sarasota Florida. It is apparent from reading the tributes, that Robert Chipman has made an impact in the lives of many and has left an amazing legacy for both the community and his family. My heartfelt sympathy is extended to all who knew and loved him. - Posted by: Linda Boughton (A friend's friend) on: Sep 17, 2013

  • The Chipman family lived around the corner from me and I have memories of the the Senior Chipmans partying with my parents in our basement. I can also remember Susan babysitting me as a young girl...she was my favorite sitter! My prayers and thoughts are with the Chipman Clan...Wonderful neighbors... - Posted by: Dawn McClure (old neighbor) on: Sep 14, 2013

  • As a young man, I was often a guest of my father, Allan McPherson, at Manitoba Club dinners and after having met Bob and dining with him one evening, on subsequent visits, he always greeted me like an old friend. I found Bob to be a quality individual and a charming gentleman and I am very pleased to have known him. My sincere sympathy to the family for your loss. - Posted by: Scott A.McPherson (Acquaintance) on: Sep 13, 2013

  • Sincere condolences to the Chipman clan on the loss of beloved RM. Our thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Robert Millican () on: Sep 13, 2013

  • Dear Susan, You are in my thoughts and prayers. I thought the article in the Free Press was lovely. We got to know your Dad. You are blessed with beautiful memories. My condolences to you and your family. Love, Thérèse - Posted by: Thérèse Rollier-Brodeur (Friend CBC) on: Sep 13, 2013

  • Mark and family, we were saddened to hear about your Dad passing. He was one heck of a good guy and always quick with a smile. I have memories of him from the time we were teenagers until later years when we always seemed to bump into him on a flight to or from Florida. He never seemed to forget a face! He will be missed but never forgotten. Keep him in your hearts. Sheri, Shirley and Tom Pollard - Posted by: Sheri Pollard (Friend) on: Sep 13, 2013

  • So sorry to hear about Bob, he will be missed. My father has passed too but always remembered Bob as being a "stand up guy" & to us Steeves kids he was always kind & interested in what we were all doing as well. Our family sympathies go out to you all. Jayne, Jim, John, Jack & Doreen Steeves & Gerry Browne - Posted by: Jayne Steeves (Family Friends) on: Sep 13, 2013

  • I met Mr. and Mrs. Chipman many times as a teacher at St. Paul's High School. They were wonderful and caring parents. It is a tribute to them that they raised such well rounded children. RIP Mr. Chipman. - Posted by: George Dawson (teacher to all three sons) on: Sep 13, 2013

  • I met Bob Chipman personally a few years ago as Canadian Western Bank and National Leasing came together to continue to grow and develop a strong western Canada based financial institution. Bob had that energy and perspective you find with people that always see opportunity. He made a tremendous and enduring contribution to the community. My condolences to his family at this difficult time. - Posted by: Chris Fowler (Business Associate) on: Sep 13, 2013

  • Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the entire Chipman family. Unfortunately, we are out of the country and will be unable to attend Bob's service but our thoughts are with you. I had the privilege of getting to know Bob in the late 1990's as a businessman of the highest integrity with strong family values and commitment to community. He will be deeply missed however we take comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through his great family. - Posted by: Ken Cranston (Business acquaintance and friend) on: Sep 13, 2013

  • What a personable, friendly man. I met Mr Chipman in the middle 70's prior to moving to the U.S. and often over the years reflected on what a nice genuine person he was. He was one of those special people that once you met you remembered forever. GRT, Burlington, Vt., Boca Grande, Fl. - Posted by: Graham Robin Taylor (Acquaintance from the 1970's when I lived in Winnipeg) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I will always miss the early morning walks in Assiniboine Park. "Be the change you wish to see in the world." You were that and then some. What a contribution while on this earth and what a loss now that you are gone. - Posted by: Ian Marcil (Neighbour) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I started dealing with Birchwood motors about 50 yrs ago, I was very impressed with Mr chipman starting a class for the ladies on how to check oil, change tires etc. also the ladies got a rose any time they were in for service, a few years after I worked for him at southwood chev, as I was just a PDI guy, he knew my name and always asked how I was doing, over the years I have always asked how he was doing, my best to his family - Posted by: Paul brenan ( southwood chev worker) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • Dear Mr. Mark Chipman & Family; As A dedicated hockey fan my family and I would like to send our sincere condolences to you and your family in this time of sorrow. May you and your family get through this hard time and remember all of the happy times you and your family spent with your dad. R.I.P Mr. Chipman you will be truly missed - Posted by: Tammy Jackson (Wpg Jets Hockey Fan) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • My deepest sympathies go out to the Chipman Family. I used to work for Mr. Chipman at Birchwood Motors, Southwood Chev, National Toyota plus others and I had the highest respect for Mr. Chipman and the caring that he had for his employees. Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Joan Wiebe (past employee) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • The world would be a much better place to live if there were more BOB CHIPMANS. He was a wonderful friend and man of honour to all who knew him. I am sure his sons and daughter will miss his fatherhood and sense of duty which made him so special. ST CHARLES COUNTRY CLUB LOST A BRIGHT STAR WHEN BOB LEFT US.. - Posted by: Wayne HOGABOAM (FRIEND.) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I first met Robert Chipman in 1963/64. Although we were not in the habit of visiting each other’s homes we had a closeness that was always cherished. Our families grew up in the same neighborhood where many neighbors looked out for each other. Robert Chipman started the famous Birchwood name in 1963 and we started our company in 1964. We were customers of each other. This wonderful relationship has certainly stood the test of time; almost fifty years demonstrate the respect we had for each other and will live on through our children. Bob Chipman will be missed by the thousands of people who had the privilege to meet and get to know him. We have been blessed to have him as a friend. - Posted by: R.W.(Bob) Cunningham (Friend) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • My sympathies to Mark and the Chipman family. I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Chipman while at the Moose, treating him for a golf injury. He was such a soft spoken gentleman. A real pleasure to have met him and he was obviously an outstanding role model for his sons. - Posted by: Ross Hodgkinson (Former Athletic Trainer Manitoba Moose) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • My condolonces to the Chipman's Family. I know Mr. Chipman for 13 years here in NLG. He is very calm, with the gentle smile on his face whenever I see him in NLG. He will be missed by all. My prayers and thoughts are with Chipman's Family. - Posted by: Recelina Mojarrabi-Kermani (Employee at National Leasing) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I met Robert a few times while I was at the House of Peace. I was always impressed by his gentle manner and his generosity of heart. I offer my deepest sympathy to the family and especially to Steve and Ruth whom I got to know and to the lovely daughter who was instrumental in getting some of us from the House of Peace, to attend a Winnipeg Jets Game. My prayers are with all of you at this time of great loss. Blessings and Peace! - Posted by: Sr. Mariette Rivard SMS (Met Robert while I was at the House of Peace) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I remember Bob as a very caring and giving man and especially remember his passion for gardening. He did such a great job on "Elm Tree Farm" keeping it beautiful. My Parents, Hal & Myself remember our days fondly sharing special times with Bob and family at Elm Tree farm. He was a wonderful man and will be missed. My Parents were friends with Bob since the days of St. Paul's HS. Sincere condolences to the family. Treasure - Posted by: Treasure & Hal Sear (friend/former Tenant) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I came to know of your father as a gardener at Assiniboine Park and was charmed and truly impressed by his passionate interest in so many facets of life and how he possessed that unique ability to make anyone seem a friend. Treasure all your cherished memories of a great man, that you were able to call a father, grandfather, a mentor and friend! My most sincere sympathies to the family! - Posted by: Maurice Larson (Acquaintance) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • Deepest sympathies to the Chipman Family. My time knowing Mr.Chipman was very brief, but I can say that in life you rarely meet somebody who personified "first class" that Mr. Chipman did. He always had or made time for you at events and was remakable at remembering who you were. It was a pleasure meeting and getting to know a little bit about him over the last few years. - Posted by: Larry Fayle (Business Associate) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I will never forget when you let me use your car when I had a problem with mine. GOD BLESS - Posted by: earl green (a great guy i knew when i was a youn guy at the souyhwood golf course ) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • As a long, long time employee of RM's I express my deepest sympathies to the Chipman family. RM was fair, shrewd, generous, compassionate, generous and "the boss". He would always take the time to stop in to talk about how current trade and commerce situations were affecting my sales. I had to give a true and accurate answer because RM could always read me like a book and knew if my answers weren't right on! We had great times at George Lake and I do believe RM has still not played his best Domino's game yet! RM you will always remain in our hearts and will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Paul Wilkes (Employee, Friend) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • To Mark, family and friends. RM's tremendous contributions to the city and everyone he came into contact with will surely be missed. However, we all know his legacy will live on through you and the rest of your family thanks to the prescious mentorship and guidance received by all who knew him, truly a "man for others". Rest in peace Bob, and may God Bless you and the rest of your family. - Posted by: The Ten (Friends) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • I met Bob Chipman in 2010 when we were in the process of welcoming National Leasing into the Canadian Western Bank Group. I could tell he was so very well respected and when I met him I completely understood why. He was a Founder and a Builder while still being a humble and gracious man. I was glad to have met him. Our condolences to the Chipman Family and all of Bob's friends at National Leasing. Tracey Ball, EVP & CFO Canadian Western Bank - Posted by: Tracey Ball (Business Acquaintance) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • When you bought a car from Birchwood, you also bought it from Bob. He was a man who was genuinely interested in his staff, customers and business associates. He developed many businesses over the years and also helped many get started and indeed thrive in the Winnipeg business world. He surrounded himself with the best at what they did and encouraged others to be the same. On top of the business side he was a respected family man and had strong and visible values. He exemplified what a business leader and community stalwart should be. Condolences to the Chipman family. - Posted by: Allan Tucker (customer) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • It is very sad to learn of Bob Chipman's passing. It was fortunate to have had the opportunity to know, work and learn with Bob and his family. What a life to rejoice. My deepest condolences. Court - Posted by: Court Brooker (Honoured friend and former business associate.) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • Peace to all members of the family as you say farewell to your beloved father and grandfather. May Bob hear the Lord's words: "Well done, good and faithful servant! Enter into the joy of your master." - Posted by: Fr. Joe Newman SJ (St. Ignatius Parish) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • As fine a Man as I have had the pleasure to meet. We will miss you at T & T Seeds. My condolences to his family. - Posted by: Jim Walker (Friend) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • My deepest condolences to the Chipman family. I purchased my first vechile at Birchwood Motors soon after high school from Phil Rowan both Phil and I were classmates of Geoff at St Pauls's High School Class of 71 and a few years younger than Steve. Steve was the Manager at Birchwood and he personally cleaned my vechile before I drove away from the dealership. Mr Chipman wanted you to feel important when you came into the dealership. A feeling like you were coming home. I have had the oppotorunity to meet Mr Chipman overs the years at the Birchwood main office when I would drop by to say hi to Steve, Mark or Nick LaPing or at Golf fundraising events with Son Mark. Mr Chipman was always cheerful and made you feel part of the family. Will miss you. Eddy Oczerklewicz friends of Geoff (also Classmate at St Paul's High Class of 71), Steve and Mark - Posted by: Eddy Oczerklewicz (Friend and Classmate of Geoff and friends of Steve and Mark) on: Sep 12, 2013

  • My condolences to the Chipman family RM was always a very nice man and always smiling. He would always ask how you were and how things were going. We always liked seeing him at our work because we liked him a lot he was so friendly. - Posted by: Tony Musto (Employee) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • I knew Bob as a fellow member at St. Charles Country Club. We enjoyed many games of golf together. Bob served as President and Club Captain and excelled in both capacities. Bob played the game as he lived, with integrity and full consideration for others and the golf course. Mark, Steve and Jeoff, I am a better person for having known your Dad. - Posted by: Michael Evans (Friend) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • My deepest Sympathies to the entire family. I recall RM talking about his history but in his usual modest manner he dismissed many of the accomplishment. Over the years his love of Family, Community, and the extended business family became obvious in so many ways. His spirit within the community will be greatly missed but the family can be proud to have had his great enduring leadership. Our thoughts will be with you in the days to come. - Posted by: Len Funk (Former Financial Advisor) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Robert helped me out once (when he didn't have to), that left a lasting impression on me. It really showed his character, someone to look up to. Knowing his son Marc and I'm sure the rest of the family: 'The Apple doesn't fall far from Tree'. He will be sadly missed, My condolences to all. - Posted by: Lloyd (Marcy) Beaucage (Son in law to a good friend of Bob) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Am an employee at St. Charles and it was a pleasure to see Mr. Chipman come in. Always with a smile. He will be missed by many of the staff - Posted by: Tamara () on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Deepest sympathy for your loss. I know your dad was a great guy, a class act who will be sorely missed. - Posted by: Roy Vance (former co-worker of Susan at CBC ) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • My deepest sympathies Jeoff to you and all of your family. I was always amazed by the fact that he had so many contacts and employees and he remembered everybody's name. Your Dad was a wonderful man. - Posted by: Karen Daniels (Former Employee of Stevenson Management Services) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Bob was a client of mine when I was a partner in the Winnipeg office of KPMG. He was also a friend and we enjoyed many business discussions as well as golf games at St. Charles. He was one of the most astute, forward thinking and knowageble peersons that I have ever encountered. He will be missed by all. - Posted by: John Morrison () on: Sep 11, 2013

  • I had the pleasure of meeting Robert Chipman in 1984 and over 29 years we had many opportunities to spend time talking and getting to know each other’s opinions on many subject matters. I truly had a great deal of respect for this truly humble and compassionate gentleman. Bob and his wife raised 4 beautiful children, whom I’ve also gotten to know over the years with the same amount of respect I have for their parents. A true living and lasting tribute to their loving parents! The City of Winnipeg has truly lost a genuine impressive leader with the passing of Robert Chipman and the only solace we have; is the legacy left behind in his wonderful family, grandchildren and the many fond memories made. Please accept my sincere heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Chipman Family and friends. - Posted by: Shirley Timm-Rudolph (Former Winnipeg City Councillor and friend) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Bob gave me my first job as an Architect practicing on my own. We worked together over the next 20 years. Bob was an amazing man, one of the best I've ever known. Such grace, humility, and generosity. He was a true family man, who instilled in his children the same rich values that he aspired to. His friends and family will truly miss this very special man! - Posted by: Terry G Green (Bob's architect on LongBoat Key , Fl) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • To Stephen and family, I am saddened to learn of the passing of your Dad and empathize completely as I unexpectedly lost my own Dad at age 90 on August 10. He too was a long-standing parishioner of St. Ignatius and avid gardener. What a great legacy your Dad (and Mom) have left in his accomplished family. - Posted by: Anna Maria Magnifico (Friend) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • I had the pleasure of working for RM briefly at the birchwood group and the pleasure of playing golf each year at the Misericordia golf tournament. He was one of the finest gentlemen I have ever met, we will miss seeing the beautiful golf swing, you will be missed, but rememberd. - Posted by: jeff heiland / falcon lake G.C (emploee/ friend) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Fond memories of Mr Chipman & his family while on vacation in Florida. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of them. - Posted by: Douglas Dick (Family friend) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Mr. Chipman was a wonderful man, kind-hearted and a joy to talk to. He will be missed. - Posted by: Chad Wiebe (Former employee) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • Deepest Sympathies to the Chipman Family. I worked for RM for almost 20 years and he taught me so much. He not only could talk the talk but he walked the walk - in fact he ran it. He lived by his 12 Precepts that is for sure. He gave a chance to a bunch of people he didn't even know and allowed them to start a company. I along with all the people at SECO owe him so much. Winnipeg and Manitoba has lost a very great person who never failed to pump the tires of the city and province. We will miss you Mr. "C". You are the reason I am where my family and I are today. Thanks for every thing. Wade Christensen & Family Port Coquitlam & Cranbrook, BC. - Posted by: Wade Christensen (Former Employee) on: Sep 11, 2013

  • I didn't know Mr Chipman for long, but from what I know and knew of him, he was an AMAZING man and will be dearly Missed. RIP Mr Chipman. - Posted by: Shelley Titanich (Employee at National Leasing) on: Sep 11, 2013

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