MAJOR (RETD) THE REV. MURRAY GORDON PIPPY

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MAJOR (RETD) THE REV. MURRAY GORDON PIPPY, CD, BA, B.TH. March 4, 1924 - December 28, 2001 It is with great sadness that Murrays family announces his passing at Oakview Place at the age of 77. After a lengthy illness he went peacefully to be with his Lord to whom he had dedicated his life at an early age, a commitment that he unwaveringly pursued until the time of his death. Born and raised in Winnipeg, Murray graduated from United College (Winnipeg) with his degree in Arts and Theology, being ordained into the United Church of Canada in June 1949. During the next five years, Murray was the minister for four churches at Swan Lake in southwestern Manitoba. During that period he met Shirley McBrien who became his wife and partner in his ministry until the time of his passing. In 1954, Murray joined the RCAF where he served as Chaplain in several locations throughout Canada and in France. During this period Murray and Shirley had two daughters, Susan and Joanne (Jody) who were his pride and joy. Upon his retirement from the RCAF Murray was pastor at Willmar Heights United Church in Scarborough. In 1980, he returned to Winnipeg to become the first Chaplain at Seven Oaks Hospital where he remained until his retirement. Over the years Murray has been associated with several organizations including membership in the Masonic Lodge, several branches of the Royal Canadian Legion, the Royal Canadian Air Force Association, Chaplain to the Burma Star in Toronto and honourary Chaplain to the Wartime Pilots and Observers Association in Winnipeg and Army, and Navy and Airforce Veterans in Canada. Although his work and life in the military, his work at Seven Oaks Hospital and the churches to which he ministered were great sources of pride to him, it was his ministry to all people, no matter what their religion or beliefs, which was his true calling. His ability to be a source of comfort to so many people over the years is an achievement those of us who remain behind can only use as inspiration and a guide on how to lead our lives. He touched the hearts and souls of so many people over the years and that will be how Murray will be remembered by his family, friends, and coworkers from each of his ministries. Murray was predeceased by his parents, Arch and Mina. He is survived by his wife Shirley, daughters, Susan Bernjak (Ferd, grandchildren, Lori, Kris, Carly, Andria, and Steven), and Jody Brown (Steve, grandchildren, Mark, Jonathan, and Bethany) sisters, Norma Moore (Don), and Joan Graham (Bill) brother Bruce (Alma - who along with nephew Gordon were faithful visitors and great comfort to Murray throughout his illness), numerous nephews, nieces, Shirleys family, and other relatives. The family wish to extend a special thank you to the staff of Oakview Place for their special care. Funeral service will be held on Friday, January 4 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sturgeon Creek United Church, 208 Thompson Dr. with Major (Retd.) the Rev. W. Gordon Shields CD officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation or another charity of your choice are welcomed. Murray, thank you for blessing our lives. PER ARDUA AD ASTRA NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 02, 2002