Frederic Hunter "Fred" Chipman

Frederic Hunter Chipman, Fred, as everyone knew him, was born in Saint John NB, December 9th 1940, died August 14th 2024 of advanced Parkinson’s at Shannex Blomidon Court outside Wolfville. He was predeceased by his parents Margaret and Curtis Chipman and his brother Lowell. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Chipman née Martin; his sisters Carol (Ron Buckley) and Beth; sons Hugh (Tania) and Tim (Sue Zinck); grandsons Max, Jack and Raphael.

Fred grew up in Bedford, Nova Scotia. He attended Acadia University for his engineering certificate and B.Sc., TUNS for his Electrical Engineering, University of Toronto for his Masters in Electrical Engineering and the University of Waterloo for his PhD in Mathematics  He enjoyed teaching for many years in Acadia’s Math department. His research was in numerical methods for the solution of differential equations.

Fred had a particular style in his approach to life, quietly engaging with everyone and everything around him. His ability to see, understand and 'just get things done' meshed with an enthusiasm to try new things and explore the world around him and its many wonders. In living this way, he connected with many people across all areas of his life, leaving lasting impressions over the years.

Fred had many non-mathematical interests. He loved the outdoors: walking, canoeing, hiking ("tramping" in New Zealand), gardening - vegetables being his prime focus at home and "guerilla gardening" downtown. He served on the executives of the Valley Gardeners Club, the Acadia Cinema Coop and Acadia’s Performing Arts Series. He was a longstanding member of the Blomidon Naturalists Society. He was a Cub and Venturer leader and practised Tai Chi daily for many years.

Fred’s varied interests included cooking (spicy international foods and family favourites "Fred bread" and apple roll ups), woodworking and carving, sudoku, films, concerts, plays and performances by music students. He travelled to many places, going on camper van trips in Europe and Britain, sabbaticals in Auckland New Zealand and Brisbane, Australia, stopover trips to the Cook Islands and in retirement Bermuda and Bequia. Locally, his favourite mode of transportation was the bicycle - he was seen in all seasons biking around town. Fred was a hands-on supporter of many community endeavours.

Fred’s immediate family knew him for his unconventional sense of humour, which is evident in his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed, but we feel fortunate to have known him and to have so many wonderful memories of our times together, of his thoughtfulness and concern for others.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name to your favourite charity are encouraged. We gratefully acknowledge the supportive care and concern we received from the team while Fred was living the last 2 years at Blomidon Court.

A celebration of life will be held at the White Family Funeral Home on September 5th at 2 pm. During the service, there will be a chance to share brief reminiscences about Fred. Casual attire is welcome, in keeping with Fred’s own preference. A live stream link will be available for those unable to attend.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. To view the video webcast and for online condolences or inquiries please visit: www.whitefamilyfuneralhome.com.