Sarnia Mourns Iris Kippert, Celebrating the Artist, Mother, Grandmother, and Adventurous Spirit She Was

 The Sarnia community is remembering Iris Kippert, a remarkable artist, devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and woman whose adventurous spirit shaped a life filled with creativity and meaningful relationships. Iris passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Bluewater Health at the age of 59, surrounded by her family. Her passing has brought sorrow to those who knew her, while also inspiring reflection on the experiences, artistic passions, and personal qualities that made her unforgettable.

Raised in Sarnia, Iris carried a deep connection to the community throughout her life, even as her journey took her far from Canada. She traveled to Greece, where she met her husband and raised her children before eventually returning home. That experience became part of a larger life story defined by curiosity, courage, and an openness to new experiences. Family and friends will remember not simply where Iris lived, but the enthusiasm with which she embraced the different chapters of her journey.

Creativity was central to Iris's identity. She expressed herself through photography and mixed-media artwork, finding ways to transform ordinary observations into something beautiful and personal. Her artistic interests allowed her to capture moments, experiment with ideas, and share her unique perspective with others. Art was not merely an occasional pastime for Iris; it was woven into the way she experienced the world. The creative work she leaves behind will offer family and friends a tangible connection to her imagination and distinctive way of seeing life.

Away from her artwork, Iris enjoyed a collection of interests that reflected her personality. She was an enthusiastic reader, a passionate thrifter, and a collector of beautiful tea cups. These hobbies revealed her appreciation for stories, discovery, character, and small details that could bring happiness to everyday life. Her sense of humor made people smile, while her compassion made her someone others could trust and turn to. Together, those qualities created a personality that family and friends treasured deeply.

Iris also faced cancer for many years with remarkable strength and grace. Her journey through illness was undoubtedly difficult, yet those around her witnessed a resilience that became another defining part of her story. Rather than allowing adversity to erase the qualities that made her special, she continued to be remembered for her creativity, humor, compassion, and love for those closest to her. The strength she demonstrated during challenging years leaves an enduring impression on everyone who walked beside her.

Iris was the beloved wife of Sakellarious Platsis and loving mother of Pavlos Platsis and Gunther Markos Platsis. She was a cherished grandmother to Sakellarios Nikolas Platsis and Kostantinos Ioanis Platsis, a treasured sister to Nicole Kippert, and a beloved aunt to Thalia Platsis, Maria Platsis, Maria Gkinnis, Paulina Gkinnis, Savvas Gkinnis, and Liva Kippert. Her family represented a central part of her life, and the memories they created together will remain among her most enduring gifts.

A funeral service celebrating Iris's life will be held Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 1299 Murphy Road, Sarnia. A private family interment will follow at a later date. Those wishing to honor her memory may consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society. Iris Kippert leaves behind more than artwork and treasured possessions; she leaves stories, family bonds, laughter, compassion, and memories that will continue through generations. Her life reflected creativity and courage, and her presence will remain deeply cherished by everyone fortunate enough to have known her.