Stanley Chalupka

At Watford Quality Care, Watford on Saturday, November 7, 2020, Stanley William Chalupka of Alvinston passed away in his 81styear. Dear husband to Alma (nee St. Pierre). Loving father to Mike (Ann) Chalupka, Julie (Tom) Field, Brian (Jennifer) Chalupka, and Patty (Dennis) Meston. Proud grandfather to Jordan Chalupka, Taylor Chalupka, Ashleigh (Greg) McLean, Jennara Field, Kyle (Meagan) Chalupka, Shelby Chalupka, Corey Chalupka, Mitch Meston, Logan Meston, Marshall Meston. Predeceased by his brother Steve Jr., sister Helen Calhoun, and infant child Rosemary. Stan was born on the family farm located in Brooke Township.  He was the youngest of three children and the first to be born in Canada.  Stan’s father saved for many years bringing his family from Czechoslovakia for greater opportunities and a better life.  Raised to respect others and work hard, Stan’s goal was to become a full time farmer. A farm accident at the age of 17 left him without most of his fingers.  A neighbour and nurse working at the hospital that day, insisted he be taken to London. While there, an experimental procedure was attempted and was successful.  This was his opportunity to have a chance at a normal life. He was doubly lucky, the day of the accident he was scheduled to take out a young Alma on their first date.  Once she found out about the accident all was forgiven and they began dating. Stan, determined to make the best of the situation, worked hard to relearn simple tasks. Using utensils, tying laces, and buttoning buttons were some of the simple things he had to relearn. Once out of the hospital he worked hard to make his dream of becoming a farmer a reality. Being limited, he was quick to make friends with all the local mechanics ( well till Mike was old enough to start fixing everything)Stan married Alma on January 2nd, 1960 and together they raised 4 beautiful children.  He may not have always gotten along with his children ( after all some of us did get his stubbornness) but regardless of this, we knew we were loved. He will be remembered for his love of his cars and beer.  Greeting new friends with a warm smile and a handshake. Leaving the radio blaring on the 1550 Cockshut to Sunday morning Country Classics or Sunday Polka Hour. Smoking cigarettes and his pipe. Once he quit cold turkey, the annual tradition of high end pipe tobacco gifts at Christmas ended. We all have been missing that smell ever since. Alma’s siblings always had a big spot in his heart. He grew especially close to Maurice, becoming a friend and mentor and ultimately his brother.  Mike and Julie have fond memories of Maurice being part of their early lives.  Stan and Alma, having Maurice with them in their home, taught us all the value of family and the importance of second chances. Always proud of his children, he was even prouder of his grandchildren.  Making them each and everyone feel loved and special. He did this in many ways, each as unique and different as the grandkids.  One thing that comes across from all the grandchildren was that he was always there when needed and he will be remembered by them fondly.Stans passing has been long in coming as it is for anyone dealing with Alzheimers. No one wants to see a loved one lose their sense of self or forget their loved ones. There have been a lot of hard decisions along the road to where we are today, all made with the best of intentions.  We will remember the good qualities he possessed and shared with us as we move forward in life. Special Thanks to Dr Mithoowani, and all the Staff at Watford Quality care for taking such good care of Stan in his final years, It is greatly appreciated. In keeping with Stan’s wishes cremation has taken place. A private family graveside will be held at Alvinston Cemetery on Friday, November 13 (Attendance is Restricted). Rev. Jim Breen officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the Children’s Health Foundation or War Amps Canada.