Piotr Karpluk

Polish 2nd Corps

Piotr was born in Pawlow, Ukraine on 27 April 1916. He served with distinction in the Polish Army from 1938 to 1947 and fought in the battles of Monte Cassino, Ancona and Bologna with the Polish 2nd Corps. For his service he was awarded the Polish Army medal, the British Defense medal, and the British Italy Star.

He emigrated to Canada in 1947 on a two-year work contract on a farm. When the contract was completed, he moved to Winnipeg. Piotr married Frances and they raised two sons in Winnipeg, Peter and John.

Piotr was employed by the City of Winnipeg in the Works and Operations Department and retired after 32 years of dedicated service. He also served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves, Provost, Corps until 1977.

He was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage and his service with the Polish and Canadian Armed Forces.

Piotr was a lifetime member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 141. He was also in the Colour Party for 20 years and volunteered with Air Cadets Squadron No. 573 as Supply Officer and Sponsorship Chairman.

In 1992 he received a Commemorative medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada from the Governor General in recognition of significant contributions to the community and to Canada.

Piotr passed away in Winnipeg on 15 January 2001 at the age of 84 years. He was buried at the All-Saints Cemetery.