Monday, July 8, 2019
Ottawa, July 8, 2019.
Mrs. Kay Karpyza
Dear Mrs. Karpyza,
Dear Bereaved Family of Joseph Karpyza,
It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of our colleague “Józek”. This is a huge loss for our entire Association.
Joseph, a soldier of General Anders’ famed Polish II Corps, served as a sergeant in the 5th Kresowa Infantry Division, Antiaircraft Artillery Regiment. He was awarded numerous military medals and many civilian decorations including the Monte Cassino Commemorative Cross, Italy Star, Polish Army Medal, Cross of Exiles to Siberia and the Cross of Merit of the PCA in Canada.
Deported on February 10, 1940 to the far north of Siberia, he survived the labour camps of Archangielsk despite losing his father, three brothers and a sister. Following the amnesty, he joined Anders’ Army, was a participant of battles in Iran, Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon and Egypt, a hero of the battles of Monte Cassino and the Italian Campaign. Immigrating to Canada in 1947, he was a long-time member of PCA Branch No. 13 in Winnipeg. Joseph was absolutely devoted to working for the benefit of the PCA and a free and independent Poland.
I have fond memories of our conversations and meetings at SPK in Winnipeg. I always considered Joseph as a living history and a constant reminder of what binds our Association.
With his passing, Polonia has lost an prominent community volunteer and a wonderful man whom we will always admire as an true example of patriotism.
Departing to his "last post", he leaves behind a beloved family and dear friends with whom we unite in this time of grief.
On behalf of myself, the Head Executive Board and Council of the PCA in Canada, and all members of the PCA in Canada, I extend our deepest sympathy on the death of our dear friend Joseph, and attest the highest respect and recognition of his work for the good of our Association, Canada and our fatherland.
Honour his memory!
Andrzej Ruta
National President PCA in Canada
