GEORGE F. KEHLER

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GEORGE F. KEHLER It is with great sorrow that the family announces the sudden passing of George F. Kehler, age 85, at his home in Steinbach on December 15, 2005. He will be sadly missed by his daughters Iris Kornelsen and Ruby (Mike ) Kehler, his grandchildren Samara May and Jeremy Froese, Stacey and Sean Loewen, Troy Kehler and Zachary Kornelsen. His memory will also be cherished by his sister Ida Kliewer, and extended family Garnet and Margaret Remer, Peter and Anne Kehler, Ike and Mary Giesbrecht, Ben and Nina Giesbrecht, and Helen Giesbrecht, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife Mary in 1999, brothers John, Abe, Ben and Peter and sisters Margaret, Anne, Katherina, Helena and Maria (in infancy). George was born in Niverville, MB April 16, 1920. He met and married Mary Giesbrecht June 11, 1947. George was baptized upon the confession of his faith in 1955 and joined the Evangelical Mennonite Brethren Church in Steinbach (currently Cornerstone Bible Church). Dad spent most of his life working in sales. This provided him with the opportunity to do what he loved best, interacting with people. His life was shaped by his time spent in the C.O. Camps, working as a car salesman for Penner Motors, and the 25 years he spent working for the radio station. He actually was known as Mr. CHSM. The friendships he formed during these years lasted a lifetime. Dad was also in the rental business. He took his position as a Landlord to a whole new level in the personal service that he provided to his tenants. When we as his children took over the business he stressed numerous times that this was not only a business but also a ministry. Dad took great pride in being a member of the Gideons for the past 45 years. Two weeks ago he was still delivering testaments to schools and was a well recognized figure at funerals where he accepted donations for Bibles. During the course of his life Dad successfully fought and won four battles with cancer. He used these experiences to help and encourage others struggling with this disease. Dad loved people. Talking, listening, encouraging and ministering to people is what made him tick. He will always be remembered for his story telling and the intricate detail that only he could recall of his many experiences, and also for his strong community involvement. He felt great love and pride for the City of Steinbach and his Mennonite heritage. In recent years one of Dad's highlights was the weekly Tuesday morning Romeos (Really Old Men Eating Out) breakfast club he was a part of. He got to connect with many dear friends on those mornings. Dad was a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather. The love of his life was our Mother who was his quiet pillar of strength. His love and devotion to her was a wonderful legacy. Although her death left a great void, he continued to put a smile on his face as he went about his still very active life. Dad's positive attitude and enthusiasm for life was evident to those whose lives he touched. As his family we are thankful for the strong faith that he always demonstrated and the love and happy times we shared. We will miss you Dad. A devotional will be held Monday, December 19 at 7 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Dr, Steinbach, MB. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, December 20 at 2 p.m. at the Cornerstone Bible Church, 290 First St., Steinbach, MB. Donations in lieu of flowers in his memory may be made to Gideons, PO Box 3619 Stn Main; Guelph, ON N1H 9Z9 or CancerCare Manitoba, Room ON109 - 675 McDermot Ave.; Winnipeg., MB R3E 0V9. Arrangements by: Birchwood Funeral Chapel Steinbach Winnipeg, MB 1-888-454-1030 or 1-204-346-1030

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 19, 2005