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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
KIEPER, Wilbur August (Bill) - passed away in the early hours of August 4, 2021, in Kelowna, BC.
Bill was born on the family farm on November 16, 1924, in the Minniska District near Russell, Manitoba. He was the youngest of five boys. Bill started school in a typical one room country setting and completed his education in Russell.
Bill joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1943 and was honourably discharged in 1945. On July 12, 1945, he married Ivy Smith. Ivy passed in December 2019 after 74 years of marriage. They were blessed with their two children Bob, and Wendy. After years of farming, delivering farm fuel, and working as a meat cutter, Bill found employment in the beautiful Okanagan. In 1968, they moved to Osoyoos, BC and were there for over a decade. They then set up in Midway, BC for a few years. Bill and Ivy retired to Kelowna, BC.
Through the many years, they became close friends to many. Bill’s big smile and kind attitude are well remembered, and he will be missed.
Bill was a family man and also spent much of his time helping and participating in many organizations. As well as teaching Sunday School, Coaching Peewee Hockey, and Instructing for the local Air Cadets. He was a life member of the Legion, Masons, and became a loyal member of the Kelowna Naval Veterans Association.
By request, there will be no service. (Springfield Funeral Home)
Bill enlisted in Winnipeg in May 1943 with the RCNVR, serving in Canada and the Atlantic. He was discharged in October 1945, and received the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp. Wilbur is a member of Russell Branch #159 of The Royal Canadian Legion and living in British Columbia. (Source: Legion Recognition Book)
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