ADAM KELL

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ADAM KELL It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, Papa, great-grandfather and friend, Adam Kell on May 23, 2007. Our Dad was born in Camper, MB on November 27, 1920 to Adam and Katherine. He spent his childhood on the family homestead in the Interlake area and also in Winnipeg. During the Second World War, Dad enlisted in the Air Force becoming a Pilot Officer. He was the mid upper gunner member of a Halifax bomber crew based in England. Dad and his crew flew many more missions than the usual tour of duty with each of them coming home local heroes and friends for life. In 1945, Dad married the love of his life, Dorothy Buffie, who had waited for him to return from the war. Dad and Mom lived in happiness for 47 years on Pacific Avenue, Selkirk, raising their children Ken and Patricia. Mom died in 1992 after enduring long illness. Dad was at her side throughout, nursing and caring for her and providing her with love that sustained her for many years. Dad enjoyed boating on the Red River, camping in the Whiteshell, golfing, junior hockey, umpiring baseball, dancing and gardening; but more than anything he enjoyed family. He was devoted to his grandchildren. Each of them has special Papa' memories. Dad raised us with a loving, gentle manner, providing for us a model of kindness, forgiveness, faith in God and devotion to family. Dad was a good neighbour, often snow blowing neighbours' driveways, and fixing lawn mowers. Dad worked as a service station owner, car mechanic and school custodian. He demonstrated to us an exemplary work ethic, with his hard work and honesty. We still hear stories from people who were touched by Dad's generosity and kindness. After Mom died, Dad found companionship and married Linnea. After Linnea's passing Dad moved to Kelowna where he met and married Carol. Dad's journey through Dementia was long and difficult. With sorrow, we placed Dad in Westside Care Nursing Home where he lived the past three years of his life. Dad received wonderful, loving care during those years and we will be eternally grateful to all those dedicated nurses and caregivers who enabled Dad to live through this dreadful disease with dignity. Dad leaves to mourn his son and family, Ken and Brooke (Selkirk, MB) and their children, and granddaughter Kristin and Brian Foster; Jon and Lindsay Kell with baby Ava; Dan and Andrea Kell; and Dorie and Derrick St. Jean. Dad also leaves his daughter and family, Patricia and David Smith (Westbank, BC), and their children, Adam and Alison. He also leaves his dear sisters, Mary and Kay and his very special brother, Freddie (sister Molly died in 1988). Also grieving Dad's passing are his many brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; nieces and nephews and friends. Dad will be laid to rest beside his beloved Dororthy. A memorial service will be held Friday, June 1 at 2:00 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Main Street (6088 PTH 9A), Selkirk. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, 20 Eglinton Ave. W, Suite 1200, Toronto ON M4R 1K8.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 26, 2007