Obituary of Philip Henry Clappison

May 2, 1925 - April 8, 2023

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Philip Henry Clappison, 97, on Saturday April 8, 2023. Predeceased by his beloved wife Frances (Brubacher), in 2018. He is survived by his children: Philip A., Stephen (Carolyn), Susan, Elizabeth, and Margaret. Also survived by Neil.  Cherished grandfather of Emily (Chris), Sarah (Michael), Seanachi, Anailsi, Andrew, Laura (Doug) and Matthew (Ana).  Great grandfather to Maeve. 

Dear brother to Paul of Hamilton. Survived by brothers-in-law Garry Dunk and Henry Hudel. Predeceased by his parents Herbert and Wilhelmina Clappison and 14 siblings: Herb (Norma), Dorothy (Jack Virtue), Muriel (Jack Downey), Billy (Sadie), Fred (Kay, Mina), Richard (Lillian), Edward (Theresa), Robert (Anne), Frances, Donald (Doris), David (Carol), Rhonda Dunk, Peter, and Ruth (Jim Fountain).

At 18, Philip joined the Canadian Navy in 1943 and served as a stoker on the HMCS Sackville, and the HMCS Winnipeg crossing the North Atlantic many times.

In 1948 Phil met Frances Brubacher, a nursing student from Kitchener. They married in 1949 and remained inseparable for almost 69 years. To support his growing family he left his job as a tool and die maker and started working for AV Roe in Malton and selling storm doors and windows in the evening. Later he started a window manufacturing business. Having built his own plant, he then moved on to constructing commercial properties for rent.

Always one for adventure, he took to sailing in the 1980’s. He enjoyed many sailing trips with Frances, family and friends aboard The Bella Mae. They explored Georgian Bay, Lake Ontario, and sailed the St. Lawrence River to Newfoundland. Dad had a wonderful purpose-filled life. He believed in living each day to the fullest and that kindness was its own reward.

The Clappison family will receive relatives and friends at First United Church, 16 William St. West, Waterloo on Tuesday May 2nd, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A memorial service to celebrate Philip’s life will be held at the church at 11:00 a.m.  A reception will immediately follow in the church. A private family interment will be held at Calvary United Cemetery, St. Jacobs.

Condolences for the family and memorial donations to: The Canadian Naval Memorial Trust and HMCS Sackville, or Plan International may be arranged by contacting the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.