Eldon KEMPTHORNE

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

KEMPTHORNE: Eldon Lorne Kempthorne, October 31, 1926-September 7, 2017. Eldon began his 90 year journey in the Boissevain area on Halloween, sharing a birthday with his mother. He grew up on the family farm with four siblings learning the values of hard work, honesty and family. His eagerness to learn and his strong work ethic enriched his life and those around him. He often stated, “If you can’t do what you like, then like what you do!” While working at Drings in Boissevain he met the love of his life, a young nurse named Doris. They committed to building their lives side by side with their mutual love for God being the pillar. He was the definition of a thoughtful and devoted husband. A career change would see them move to Saskatoon, and then come full circle and retire back to Boissevain. They had three children David, Nancy and Eric, and there was really no question that becoming parents was a gift. They were thankful everyday for the opportunity and they dedicated their lives to raising them and teaching them the importance of family, faith, and fresh jam. As grandkids came along he became Grandpa with the glasses, then Great-Grandpa. He felt each addition to the family was an answered prayer and extended the same love and lessons to each generation. The communities of Boissevain, Saskatoon (Potter Cres.) and Lake Max were all considered home and where many valued lifelong friendships began. He fostered friendships and stayed connected over many miles through phone calls, typewritten and handwritten letters. Whether it was a move, career change, or any life changing event, he took each challenge that life gave him with grace and the determination to see the bright side. He had a keen sense of humor and could lighten most any situation. Although he lived his life intentionally and methodically, he didn’t take himself too seriously. With a twinkle in his eye and a smile, you knew a laugh was just around the corner. He felt each day had the opportunity to have goodness in it if you just looked for it. In a busy, rushing world he always took the time to stop and visit. He would listen, engage, and truly care about what the other person was sharing with him. Eldon was an avid fan. Curling, hockey, baseball, swimming, dance, skiing …. it didn’t matter, but by far, his favorite teams were the ones his children and grandchildren were on. He enjoyed friendly competition and would always take the time to teach and play games with anyone. He spent hours around the card table with a fresh drink, nibblers and many laughs. He wove charm and wit into everything he was doing. Eldon had a servant’s heart. At all times, he was more concerned about what he could do to help others make their lives better than he ever was of his own happiness. As hard as this last chapter was, it was also beautiful. He appreciated all the company he received. Communicating with words became difficult in the last year, but with a twinkle in his eye, and outstretched arms he would embrace his loved ones. Just as it was throughout our whole lives, while holding hands you knew you were loved. Thanks Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa! Eldon was predeceased by his wife Doris; his parents Lulu and Norman; his brother Fred; brothers-in-law Del, Elvis, Glenn, Verne, Mel; sisters-in-law Lil, Sharon, Ruth; niece Lynda. Those cherishing memories of Eldon are his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: David and Merrilee, (Derek and Larissa, Emerson, Winston), (Andrea and Dean Anhorn, Braleigh, Casen, Davalyn), (Jenny and Dan Heitzman, Elizabeth); Nancy and Clint Haight, (Drew and Louann), (Wade and Shayna); Eric and Erika, (Katrin, Monica, Patrick, Natalia). He is also survived by: his siblings Vera Saban, Gladys (Keith) Tufts, Archie Kempthorne and his sister-in-laws Joan Mogk, Rita Mullin and many special cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. We are proud of Eldon’s 90 year journey! Memorial Service was held Wednesday, September 13, 2017 at St. Paul’s United Church, Boissevain, Manitoba at 2:00 p.m. Interment was held at the Boissevain Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Eldon may be made to a charity of one’s choice.Messages of condolences may be made online at www.wheatlandfs.comWheatland Funeral Service 204-523-7791

As published in Brandon Sun on Sep 30, 2017