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STANLEY ROBERT MINER Obituary pic

STANLEY ROBERT MINER

Born: Nov 25, 1921

Date of Passing: Jan 06, 2014

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STANLEY ROBERT MINER Sadly, we announce the passing of Stanley Robert Miner on January 6, 2014 at the age of 92. He was a veteran of the Second World War, the Winnipeg Police Force, and travel around the globe. Born November 25, 1921 in St. Catharines, ON to George and Nellie Miner, he grew up with sisters Phyllis, Margaret and Shirley and brother Clarence. His parents, sister Margaret and brother Clarence predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his wife Patricia and infant son Paul. Two sons, Patrick (Diane) and Scott (Debbie), and two sisters, Phyllis and Shirley, survive him. Stan served his country during the Second World War as a member of the Canadian Merchant Navy from 1940 to 1946, serving in all theatres except the Western Pacific. A life member of the Burma Star Association and White Ensign Club, he was decorated by the Canadian and Norwegian governments, including the Burma Cross, the 1939-1945 Star and the Defense of Britain Medal. After the war, he settled in Winnipeg and joined the Winnipeg Police Force on January 15, 1947. He married Patricia Joan Scott on June 5, 1950 in the chapel of St. Matthew's Anglican Church. Upon completing his recruit training, he was assigned, along with Pete Vandergraaf and Jack Taylor, to "E" Division, in Winnipeg's tough North End. Practicing their own unique style of community policing, they mixed tenacity and diplomacy with a commitment to duty born of war. Pete and Jack moved on to new assignments, but Stan continued to work the North End for the majority of his patrol career. To its largely blue collar, eastern European population, he became a legend; offering a hand of help or comfort in their worst moments and a quick fist to anyone that preyed upon them. As a champion pistol shooter, he represented the Winnipeg Police Force at national and international competitions and was part of the team that introduced combat shooting to Canada. When his mandatory retirement date in November of 1981 arrived, Stan challenged the City of Winnipeg policy based on a provincial law passed in 1974. The terms of settlement of his lawsuit made Manitoba a leader in the elimination of age discrimination. The monetary award he received in the settlement was used to establish a scholarship fund for children of members of the Winnipeg Police Force. Stan moved on to a five year term supervising security guards at Red River Community College and Provincial facilities, before retiring for good to begin trekking the globe. Initially on foot with backpack and walking stick and most recently by sea on commercial and passenger ships, he visited every corner of every continent. While a complete chronicle of his travels would fill volumes, a single example captures their essence: An 18.5 square mile island 400 miles west of San Antonio, Chile, with a population of a little more than 800 is acknowledged to be the island that inspired Daniel Dafoe to write the classic novel Robinson Crusoe. The island is patrolled by a single policeman, who proudly displays two Winnipeg Police flashes on the sun visors of his van. Between trips abroad, he established and funded a second scholarship at Red River Community College and became an active member of the Canadian Forces Amateur Radio Service (VE4SRM) and the Merchant Navy Association of Canada, where he served as a Director and Vice President until 2006. During his tenure with the Merchant Navy Association, he led the fundraising efforts that resulted in the placement of a memorial stained glass window at Deer Lodge Hospital in Winnipeg and made substantial personal donations towards similar memorials in Halifax and Dover. He was proud to be part of the association's campaign to secure recognition for the Merchant Navy Veterans' contributions to Canada's war effort. The culmination of those efforts was the passage of Bill S-19 in 1998, providing full and equitable benefits to the unsung heroes of the fourth branch of Canada's military. In recognition of his efforts to honour his nation's wartime heroes and to educate its future generations, he received both the Minister of Veteran's Affairs Award and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. Stan was also an enthusiastic member of the St. Andrews Society of Manitoba and took immense joy in attending the annual Burns dinner. In 1984, while working at Red River Community College, Stan suffered a heart attack and became a patient of Dr. David Mymin. Over the course of the next 29 years, Dr. Mymin and his team at the Lypid Clinic watched over Stan's health with the attentive compassion of family. A debt impossible to repay. Prominently placed in the Merchant Navy Memorial at Deer Lodge Hospital is a Lighthouse. To paraphrase Henry Ward Beecher: "Every man should use his intellect not as he would a study lamp for his own benefit, but as the lighthouse uses its lamp, so that those on the sea may learn their way". This was the principle that guided Stan's life. Since its inception, the Stan Miner Scholarship, administered by the Winnipeg Police Association has helped 300 students graduate from university. Those wishing to honour Stan's memory are encouraged to do so by supporting his scholarship by sending a donation to the "WPA Scholarship Fund" in care of the Winnipeg Police Credit Union, 300 William Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3A 1P9. In keeping with Stan's instructions, cremation has occurred and his remains will be buried at sea by the Royal Canadian Navy. A memorial service for Stan will be held Friday, January 17 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Charles Golf and Country Club, 100 Country Club Blvd., Winnipeg. It will be followed by a belated celebration of his retirement from the Winnipeg Police Force at the Kings Head Pub, 120 King St., Winnipeg between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Depart upon thy endless cruise old Sailor. Go mbeannai Dia duit.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 11, 2014

Condolences & Memories (28 entries)

  • You have crossed the bar my friend, save me a spot on the bridge - Posted by: Paul Dartnell (Friend) on: Feb 28, 2014

  • It was a pleasure to have know Stan as he was a great gentleman with a heart as big as a mountain. Stan on a trip to Scotland brought me back two enlarged photos of the village Reay in northern Scotland. He visited there and took the pictures himself while there. He was an inspiration to anyone who had the privilege of knowing him. I moved from Winnipeg to Kelowna before Stan's passing and I am indeed sorry I was not there at his service to play the pipes for him. He wanted me to do that for him. When I am in Wpg. next I will try and play for you Stan at your rested place. You will be liked upstairs my friend. - Posted by: Jack Reay (Friend and fellow Police Officer) on: Feb 02, 2014

  • There was only one like Stan 73's to you. - Posted by: Blake Dunn (Co worker) on: Jan 21, 2014

  • Stan you will be missed in the Chief and Petty Officers Mess at HMCS CHIPPAWA. Your stories will be too. Thanks for sharing them with your mess mates. See you on the seas... Take care. Yours Aye, Chief Legge - Posted by: Joanne Legge (Fellow Sailor) on: Jan 17, 2014

  • I worked with Stan Miner on numerous occasions in my rookie years in the North End and find myself telling stories of some of his exploits to this day. He was a street cop's street cop. I recall vividly attending to a disturbance call at a Main St. bar, and on our arrival the main combatant issuing the challenge from across the room, and me telling Stan that I had this. Nope. Glasses already removed, hand against my chest, he smiled and said, "Watch and Learn". Lesson learned Stan. R.I.P. old soldier. - Posted by: Dave Shipman (co-worker and friend) on: Jan 17, 2014

  • Stan and Pat were two of the greatest people and by far the very greatest neighbors I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I moved close to Stan when I was 8 years old, when I was sad and scared I had no friends in my new neighborhood I met Pat at the convenience store on the corner with Jack, I had to pet Jack (every time I saw him) and Pat was happy to oblige. She was my first new friend. When I turned 11 I decided I would open up my own dog walking business, Stan was my first (and only) customer. I used to walk Buddy whenever I got the chance and they would pay me per walk. Occasionally my overly generous clients would try and tip me, but mom said I should not take it (especially since their tips were typically 10x my going rate). I guess Stan caught on because one day when I was 12 he handed me a Gameboy color and Pokemon. He said he was done playing the game and was not a big fan of the Gameboy. It took me about ten years to figure out I don’t think Stan ever played with a Gameboy in his life! Going to miss you Stan! - Posted by: Jocelyn G (Friend ) on: Jan 16, 2014

  • When I was 20 years old I was walking 5X Beat on Portage Ave alone late on an evening shift. I became embroiled in a very physical altercation with three miscreants who had been trashing a parked car. While I wasn't exactly losing..I wasn't winning either . Then, out of nowhere came off-duty Stan Miner. About 8 seconds later it was all over. When the patrol wagon arrived I got to observe a unique technique in how to "speed-load" prisoners into the back. He patted me on the head and I will never forget him. - Posted by: Jack Tinsley (Co-worker and admirer) on: Jan 16, 2014

  • I was very sorry to receive the news regarding the passing of Stan. I have had the privilege of knowing Stan for 13 years and we had our 'annual meetings' at the St. Andrews Society dinner. Stan was a gentleman who possessed the wonderful ability of conveying fantastic stories. I will truly miss him and my prayers go out to his family. - Posted by: Jason Stalker (Friend) on: Jan 15, 2014

  • So very sad to hear of the loss of your dear father. What an amazing man he was. You were very close and I know you will miss him terribly, but will treasure all those wonderful and proud memories. - Posted by: Bonnie de Moissac (friend) on: Jan 14, 2014

  • My deepest sympathy to the Miner family. Our father, Wilbert Melvin, worked with Stan and always spoke highly of him and admired him for all his accomplishments. I attended Prince Edward Legion's remembrance day service and was impressed and moved by Stan's speech. His gracious welcome and care and interest in my family spoke volumes of this special gentleman. This gentleman will not be forgotten. - Posted by: Colleen L Jordan () on: Jan 14, 2014

  • A simply indelible man. We, who have had the privilege of being Stan Miner's neighbours, are forever marked for having known him. As a mom of three young children, I'll never forget that when I would come down with a cold, he would stop by with a little, silver flask of whiskey and give me clear instructions to add it to some hot water and it would "fix me up" in no time! We could set our clocks by his walks with his dear dog, Buddy and we could hardly wait to hear about his voyages upon his return from his various adventures abroad. On Friday, as people gather to remember and honour this fabulous gentleman, we will be be holding our own memorial here in the Yukon (where we now live). We will open a bottle of Laphroiag single malt whiskey (one of his favourites), propose a toast to this amazing man and pour it out in a spot we know he would love. Mr. Stan Miner, we will remember you fondly and are better people for having known you. All our love, the Symanskis - Posted by: Dianna Symanski (neighbour) on: Jan 13, 2014

  • It was a blessing to know Stan Minor. He was a gem. He proved age is only a number as he gave it all and enjoyed/appreciated everything and everyone. His sons have been truly blessed to call him 'Dad'. He will never die in your hearts or ours. May Father God give you His peace and courage as you say farewell on this earth to a fine parent/till you meet again ♥♥ - Posted by: Gus & Grace (Friends) on: Jan 13, 2014

  • Pat and Stan...such nice neighbors to have for the brief time we lived next door. Condolences to the family - Posted by: Darryl and Chris (ex-neighbours) on: Jan 13, 2014

  • I was privileged to know Stan through my association with the Canadian Merchant Navy Veterans Association. He always had a tale to tell and lifted our spirits. He will be sorely missed. May the good memories sustain you in the days ahead. - Posted by: Betty Spry () on: Jan 13, 2014

  • On behalf of the "Van der Graaf" family. We extend our deepest sympathies to your family. Stan was a true Gentleman and Pete and Jack were very honoured to be a fellow officer and friend. Many stories have been shared with the family over many years of friendship. - Posted by: Laurie Van der Graaf (friend ) on: Jan 13, 2014

  • Stan was a true friend and gentleman in every sense of the word. He valued integrity and loyalty and he himself was a stellar example of those qualities. Remembering Stan will be easy and done by so many. I will always remember his engaging smile, his sharp mind and his handshake! - Posted by: Gary Walker (Friend) on: Jan 13, 2014

  • To Patrick and the entire Miner family...my deepest condolences on the passing of a truly wonderful and decorated man whom I've had the honour and privilege to meet and listen to his many great stories over the past 13 years at the St. Andrew's Society Dinner. I could listen to his stories for hours and marvel at what a wonderful and full life he lived. I am extremely saddened to say that I will not be able to attend his service and celebration as I will be out of town...but know that my thoughts will be with you and that I'll be raising a glass of scotch in Stan's memory on that day. Slainte my friend! Rest in peace. - Posted by: Cam Moskal (Friend) on: Jan 13, 2014

  • In January 1975 I graduated from the Winnipeg Police Training Academy as a 21 year old Constable and was assigned to the recently created District 3 Police Station on Hartford Ave. One of the first people I was assigned to job shadow with in the commencement of my street duties was a Veteran police officer by the name of Stan Miner. I have to admit my first meeting with Stan was intimidating for this raw rookie police officer. As time passed and I gained more confidence in my role thanks to the likes of Stan and my other more Senior police co-workers I came to respect and admire Stan and we often exchanged some great conversation on a variety of subjects and topics during the years that followed. It's been many years since I've seen Stan and I'm saddened to hear of his passing. It pleases me to know that he lived a long and adventurous life in his retirement and his legacies live on with the scholarship funds. It speaks volumes to the type of man I remember Stan to be so many years ago when we worked together. My sincere condolences to the family of Stan on his passing. - Posted by: Grant Hardman (Former co-worker) on: Jan 12, 2014

  • I was saddened to read of Stan's passing. He was a real gentleman and a man of great integrity and loyalty. I had the pleasure of being his partner when we were assigned to the Detective Section of the WPD in 1959, the same year we accompanied Norm Stewart ,Bob Taylor, Stan Smyth and Don Thorsteinson, down South to Indiana where we competed in the 1st Intl. Police Combat revolver Match. Stan Miner was a great competitor, and companion. At the conclusion of our time in Detectives Stan and his Wife PAT took my wife and I out for dinner, with a Thank you for being his partner. That's the type of man that Stan was. My sincere condolences to his family. Ron Truesdale - Posted by: Ron TRUESDALE (Friend and former Police Comrad) on: Jan 12, 2014

  • they shall not grow old as we who are left shall grow old, we will remember him, and miss him. - Posted by: Patrick S Jordan (friend,shipmate,expolice officer) on: Jan 12, 2014

  • During the times I worked with Stanley in the North end my fondest memory evolve around calls attended that involved rowdy people with big mouths. Stan would listen but at some point he would very deliberately take off his glasses and place them in his shirt pocket. Once that happened you knew someone was about to have a bad day. RIP - Posted by: Menno Zacharias (Co Worker) on: Jan 11, 2014

  • Our deepest sympathies to Stan Miner's families! Our Father always spoke very highly of Stan. Dad would tell us of Stan's travel stories. He spoke to Dad about the Melvin name and where it came from. Dad loved him as a friend and mentor! Stan was looked upon with much admiration and respect. I'm sure he'll be missed very much! R.I.P. - Posted by: Maureen Melvin-Elias (My Father was on the Winnipeg Police Force with Stan. ) on: Jan 11, 2014

  • I met Stan at Encore Hair Designs when he would come to get his haircut. He always had a story or two every time he would come in. As I later found out he knew my dad who was also a police officer and my grandfather who was in the Navy as well. He was an absolutely amazing man. I could sit and listen to his stories for hours when he would pop in for a haircut. He will certainly be missed by many. - Posted by: Lara (Friend) on: Jan 11, 2014

  • Patrick and Scott, our condolences to the both of you. Your parents were both wonderFul people who impacted our family. Your mother weekly babysat my kids for many years as we lived next door to them on Sydney and your father shared a number of meals with us over the years, telling entertaining and educating stories about life and history. We will miss the ol' guy with his hardy laugh and willingness to tell a tale. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ken & Charlene Epp and boys - Posted by: Ken & Char Epp (Friends from McIvor) on: Jan 11, 2014

  • Safe voyage to our friend and condolences to Pat and family. - Posted by: Shelley Hart and Paul (Friends and work mates) on: Jan 11, 2014

  • sincere condolences to the family. Robert and Janet Garton Langley, B.C. - Posted by: Sargent Robert Garton (retired) Winnipeg Police Force (1947 recruitment and graduation class member Winnipeg Police Force) on: Jan 11, 2014

  • Stan, thank you for sharing your PhD in life with us. We loved listening to your true tales of adventure that captivated us beyond our imaginations. We will miss you beyond words. Thank you for all the lessons in being fearless, courageous, strong in the face of all adversity. Your passion for truth, travel, education and love for our youth will live on for generations to come. We respect you and admire you, my fearless one. May God's peace beyond understanding be with your family and all who loved you dearly. Sail on my friend, until we meet again. We will love you forever and always.xoxox - Posted by: The Bender Family (family friend) on: Jan 11, 2014

  • An amazing man! Informed, informative, fearless, kind, did not put up with foolishness, and not one to cross. RIP. - Posted by: Bill Nicholson (Retired Member WPD/worked North End shift which included Stan circa 1971) on: Jan 11, 2014

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