Cliff Chadderton of War Amps dies at 94

Cliff Chadderton, who served as chief executive officer of The War Amps until 2009, has died. He was 94.

The War Amps announced Chadderton's death in a statement and said he was recognized both nationally and internationally as an influential developer of innovative programs and services for war, civilian and child amputees, and as founder of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program.

The statement did not say exactly when or where Chadderton died.

"Canada has lost a great man but his legacy will live on in the many people whose lives he has touched," Prime Minister Stephen Harper said in a written statement.

Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, said Chadderton's passing is "deeply sad" for all Canadians.

"We have lost not only a friend of the veterans' community, but a strong advocate for those who have served and sacrificed-and a truly great Canadian," Fantino said.

"Through his leadership, compassion and determination, Cliff lifted up those in need of hope, served as a mentor to fellow amputees of all ages and set an example for Canadians everywhere.

"He touched a countless number of lives, both directly and indirectly, through his belief that all veterans and disabled persons must be treated with respect and given every opportunity to contribute and demonstrate their talents and skills."

Chadderton was a D-Day veteran and lost part of his right leg in October 1944 while in command of a company of The Royal Winnipeg Rifles, battling for the Scheldt Estuary in Belgium and Holland.

Following the war, he held several positions in The War Amps before his appointment as executive secretary (later chief executive officer) of the Association in 1965. He was also Chairman and, at the time of his passing, Honorary Chairman, of the National Council of Veteran Associations.

Among other awards, Chadderton was a Companion of the Order of Canada and a member of the Order of Ontario.