Stanislavs (Stan) Anton Pipers

The man, a legend in his own right. If you're reading this, you might be wondering if this tale has unfolded or not. His family shares your confusion. Stan, also known as Sweetheart (by his wife), Stanley, Opa, Opi, Papi, Papa, Pops or simply Dad (though "Father" came out when Kit was really upset), wore many names throughout his life. But what weight does a name truly carry? Stan came into this world in Daugavpils, Latvia, just before the Soviet Occupation, instantly becoming the family favorite and a little spoiled as well. During World War II, Stan’s father, a forestry head, utilized the forest to safeguard their lives before making it onto a ship to America. Amidst hardships, they found solace in humor. Stan often chuckled about the time he puzzled over trucks in the streets labeled "mustache," mistaking the Latvian word "Usas" for "USA" on American trucks. Stan came to America on the SS General Ballou, (with just the bare necessities of life) coming into the port of New York on August 17, 1949, at the ripe age of 10. Stan was so ready for America, not so sure if America was ready for him. Stan took a great deal of pride being an American. Although, he had been in the country for over 50 years before he became a citizen. He infused his children and then grandchildren with pride in America. He would always push his children to do things he couldn’t do. Like Vote!! Despite not being an American citizen initially, Stan proudly served in the US Army. Ask him about those days, and he'll regale you with tales, like the one involving a forgotten can of beef stew warming atop his truck's engine, filling the air with an enticing aroma. He crossed paths with his wife, Virginia, on the steps of a mutual friend's house. Stan, fresh out of the Army, was playing the part of a big shot. Virginia's retort? "Why don't you come back when you're feeling better?" He did return, and the rest, as they say, became history. For 41 years, Stan served as a master electrician at Dematic, forging lifelong friendships along the way. Even in retirement at age 70, he continued the tradition of Monday breakfasts with his Dematic buddies—a tradition that endured through the years, even up to this year. Stan’s pride in his company knew no bounds; he wore his Dematic jacket proudly right up until the day before he passed away. Stan had a remarkable knack for making each of his grandchildren feel like they held a special place in his heart. He never missed a chance to attend their events, devoting his time and even picking up new skills just to bond with them. Whenever anyone asked about the price of something, he’d humorously quip, “Oh just a dollar, two ninety-eight”. A phrase that became almost legendary among his children as they grew up. When it came time to make big purchases, he’d simply shrug and say, “it’s only numbers.” His eclectic taste in music, ranging from ABBA to Sunday morning Polka radio and the Irish Rovers, could be heard from blocks away if you were close enough. Stan’s wife, children and grandchildren all carry within them a treasury of stories that speak volumes about his impact on their lives. Whether it was his protective instincts, his teachings, his infectious laughter, or the unmistakable pride he showed in them, there's an abundance of memories that words alone struggle to capture. Saying goodbye to someone who played such a pivotal role is never easy; his presence left an indelible mark, and the void he leaves behind is profound. Yet, the essence of Stan's love was unmistakable to all who knew him. It resonated in every fiber of their being. A truly great man is one who, upon departure, leaves those behind grappling with a sense of loss. But Stan, as a husband, father, and grandfather, didn't merely leave a void; he imparted invaluable lessons that empower his family to forge ahead. His passing occurred surrounded by his loved ones, in the very home he worked tirelessly to create. In those final moments, amidst shared memories and heartfelt conversations, there was an unspoken understanding of the journey ahead and we felt God’s presence and love. Stan's departure marks the beginning of a new adventure, one where he blazes the trail, ensuring that his family will be provided for when they too embark on their next destination. In the envisioning of a reunion, one can almost smell the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the sweetness of cookies, and the melodic tunes that filled the air in Stan's presence. It's a comforting thought, one that speaks to the enduring legacy of love and warmth he leaves behind. The family would like to give a special thank you to Katie, Stans Chemo nurse at Lemmon Holton. Thank you for years of humor, sarcasm and keeping Stan on his toes. The Elara Caring Team also made a significant impact on the last few days of Stans Life. Caleb, Merin, Amanda, Chuck and Ted all provided compassionate and respectful care to Stan and supported our family. Ted stood next to our family like he belonged there. Ted tried to answer questions there was no way he had answers for. Ted, we are grateful for how you cared for Stan and for all of us as well. Kit says that she will see you in church. Stan is preceded in death by his children Laura and baby Pipers, his parents Antons and Marija Pipers, his brother and his wife Tony (Nellie) Pipars, his sister and her husband Nora (Joe) Flohe and their daughter Anita Nettleman, brother-in-law Valdis Unzens, nephews John Unzens and George Whitfield. He is survived by his wife of 60 years Virginia Pipers, son Steve (Wendy) Pipers and their children Zak (Shelby) Pipers, Dr. Kennedy Pipers and Jace Pipers, Kennedy; his daughter Jennie (Jim) Levack and their children Jordan (Madison) Hunter, Ford (Grace) Levack, Gabbi Levack, Morgan (Kyle) McDermott, Merin (Darren) McDermott; his daughter Kittie (Rob) Schumaker and their children Robert (Jackie) Schumaker, Hunter (Hailey) Schumaker, Katerina (Spencer) Schumaker and Nikolas Schumaker; his sister Monika Unzens; niece Anita Whitfield; nephews Brian (Joan) Flohe, Bruno (Elizabeth) Unzens and Gary (Paddie) Nettleman. Stan was a member of the Basilica of St Adalbert and the Knights of Columbus. In Leu of flowers please make donations to the Basilica of St Adalbert Choir 654 Davis Ave NW Grand Rapids MI 49504. (Stan was their biggest fan) The Memorial Mass will be celebrated Wednesday June 19 at 11:00 AM at the Basilica of St. Adalbert. The family will also receive visitors Tuesday June 18 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, 3525 Remembrance Rd. NW. Stan, a man who always knew how to bring a smile to our faces, even in the toughest of times. If you ever felt under the weather, his go-to line was always, "But you look good!" So, Stan, we can only imagine that you're looking good, feeling good, and polka dancing up a storm with the angels now. Your humor and light-heartedness will be dearly missed, but we find solace in knowing that you're spreading joy wherever you go, just as you did here with us.

Tributes

Stanislavs (Stan) Anton Pipers

January 11, 1939 - June 4, 2024