Monroe's Man of the Hour: Bernie Sippin

Bernie Sippin lives life to the fullest. He's a graduate of the Monroe Consolidated School's first class, a lifelong member of Boy Scout Troop 62, a successful businessman, raises farm animals, leads wildlife safaris and fishing excursions to Costa Rica ... he's even flown his own plane.

On Monday night he was recognized for his philanthropy, making financial donations to places like Edith Wheeler Memorial Library, the American Legion and the Monroe Senior Center. A reception was held in the Monroe Town Hall lobby before First Selectman Steve Vavrek recognized Sippin as Monroe's Outstanding Citizen of the Year before the Town Council's meeting.

Boy Scout Troop 62 carried the American and Connecticut state flags into the Council Chambers for the Pledge of Allegiance and a dvd made by Masuk High School students was shown.

"I want to thank everybody and the citizens of Monroe for this accolade," Gary Sippin said, while saying a few words before his father received the award.

Of the many causes Sippin supports, Gary said his father's passion is education as he was the first in his generation to graduate from college, earning a degree from UConn.

"Bernie Sippin is more than a father to me. He has been my mentor, my teacher and my best friend," Gary said holding back tears. "And I've never been more proud."

"I sometimes have to watch out for myself. I get a little emotional and after Gary's speech ..." Bernie Sippin said after Vavrek awarded him with the certificate and a plaque made by Masuk teacher Doug Fedorko's woodworking class. "I'm truly honored by the award and want to thank all of the people who made this happen."

Sippin gave special thanks to Masuk teacher Jonelle Papas' film class for the dvd made by seniors Chris Dodge and Mike Held and Doug Fedorko's class who carved wood into the shape of the map of Monroe and used quartz for the plaque.

Sippin also thanked Lori, his wife of 55 years, and their sons David, Mark and Gary. "They all make life worth living," he said.

"I love this town. I've lived in this town going on 82 years," Sippin said. "God in his infinite wisdom has given some of us more than we need and we have to give back. I want to thank everyone and God bless you."

A Lifelong Boy Scout

The Monroe Outstanding Citizen Award was presented to a deserving resident from 1983 to 1998. This year, First Selectman Steve Vavrek brought back the award and a committee reviewed nominations before choosing Bernie Sippin.

When Vavrek spoke Monday night, he talked about Sippin's many contributions to the town. He has had strong involvement with the fire department, was a former Board of Finance member and founding member of Boy Scout Troop 62.

All three of Sippins sons were Boy Scouts in the troop and Bernie still serves on its Board of Directors.

"This guy does it all," Vavrek said. "I'm surprised he's not still in uniform."