PAUL KETTNER

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PAUL KETTNER Paul Kettner, 86, beloved husband of Patricia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Friday, December 21, 2012, at the Simkin Centre. Born in Winnipeg to Benjamin and Cora Kettner, Paul spent his early childhood in Grahamdale, MB, where he first developed his love for the outdoors. He moved back to Winnipeg at the age of 12, where he attended St. John's High School. After serving in the Canadian Army during the Second World War Paul joined the family garment business. In the early 1950s Paul and Pat moved to Nelson, B.C. After a few years they returned to Winnipeg to start a family. For the next two decades Paul owned and operated Fort Rouge Decorating and Sandblasting Co., until his early retirement. Paul was an expert craftsperson and builder. He built the first of many boats as a young teenager. He was also a pilot and flying enthusiast. After his retirement he devoted seven years to building an airplane, an accomplishment which gave him much pride and pleasure. Paul and Pat enjoyed summers with their family and friends at Falcon Lake. He spent countless hours fishing and was an active member and leader of the Falcon Yacht Club for many years. For over 20 years Paul and Pat enjoyed the company of their friends in Puerto Vallarta, Paul's refuge from the Winnipeg winters. Paul loved to sit in the sun, to explore the Mexican countryside, and to entertain. Most years their children and grandchildren gathered in Mexico for wonderful family times. Paul had a remarkable ability to befriend strangers from all walks of life. His large circle of friends ranged from high school classmates he has known for seven decades to the wonderful care givers at the Simkin Centre that he met only recently. Paul is survived by Patricia, his wife of 64 years, his children Gary (Fatemeh Ashkan), Shawn (Peter Harrison), Beth (Rick Borchert), grandchildren Samantha, Maxwell, Leah and Adam, brother David (Hilary), sister Sylvia Scott (Saul) and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the charity of your choice. There will be a celebration of Paul's life Monday, December 24 at 1:00 p.m. at the Saul and Claribel Simkin Centre, 1 Falcon Ridge Drive. Family will gather at the Shaarey Zedek cemetery for a grave side service at 11:30 a.m.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 24, 2012