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JOHN KEMP

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JOHN KEMP John, 70, passed away peacefully at the Victoria General Hospital with family by his side on September 22, 2013. Survived by Elizabeth, his loving wife and best friend, children Paul (Jill), Michael (Jackie), Janet (Jay) and grandchildren James, Audrey and Annika Kemp, Marcus, Nathan and Vanessa Kemp and Emmett and Julia Onysko, Eun Young Kim (Dae Hong) who was like a second daughter to him, and her children Ian and Lauren, who called him "Grandpa", sisters Jean Vulliez (Louis) of North Vancouver and Mary Bollman (Rod) of Victoria Beach, brother-in-law and close friend Harry Francis Trueman (Bettie), nieces Suzette O'Byrne, Janine Thornton and Jill Zacharias, nephews Philip Bollman and Matty Trueman and their families, as well as close friends Dianne Sproll, Gary McGibney and Hanna Kebede. Predeceased by mother and father Mary and Douglas Kemp. John will be missed by many. John grew up in the Wolseley area and studied at Laura Secord, Gordon Bell, University of Winnipeg and U. of M. In his younger years, he was a superior athlete in baseball, basketball, track and field, speed skating and football. In 1959, he achieved his greatest sporting milestone by quarterbacking the Gordon Bell Panthers to the city championship (their first in 22 years, and an exceptional feat for the lowest enrollment high school in the league). John was offered numerous NCAA athletic scholarships but was forced to turn them down with the initial onset of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 1960. Instead he stayed in Winnipeg, and paid his university tuition using earnings derived as a pool hall shark. He had a long and happy career as a teacher and coach, always inspiring students to reach their potential. John's passion for history, geography and sport was shared with countless students at Cecil Rhodes, JB Mitchell and Churchill High. Over the years, he coached volleyball and basketball, but it was cross-country running and track and field where he made his greatest mark. With an incredible ability to connect and motivate kids, and a keen eye for technique, his coaching skills were impressive. John was not only a multi-year provincial team coach at the National Legion Track and Field Championships, he was also the head track coach and co-founder of the X-country running camp at the International Peace Gardens, where each summer he got into all sorts of mischief with his fellow coaches, many who are loyal friends today. For years he also coached with the Flying M Track Club, and saw dozens of his athletes launch successful provincial, national and university running careers. In his 40s, when his MS became too severe to teach PhysEd, John became a guidance counsellor for many years; and then finished his career on a high note, teaching ESL at Churchill High, helping countless immigrant students - many who became life-long friends. After retiring, John never really stopped teaching. For years, he volunteered as an ESL tutor at the U. of M.'s International Centre, not only helping students academically, but enabling them and their families to navigate life in a new country. Teaching was in John's blood and he loved nothing better than to share his knowledge during quiet times with his many grandchildren, including how to cast a fishing line off the pier at Victoria Beach, where he often lived up to his reputation for catching the first, the biggest, and the most fish of the day. The sole figure of John, year after year, dipping a line at his favourite fishing spots on that pier is an image many will never forget. Travel was also in John's blood - whether he was poking around the Cabot Trail, the rock formations of Sedona, marvelling at the vegetable production of Israel's moshavs, visiting close friends in Worchester, England, enjoying the pousadas in Portugal, taking a safari in Zimbabwe, or watching John Walker win the 1500M at the Montreal Olympics, he loved it all. He wanted to see the world, and he did. Every winter John and Elizabeth returned to their "paradise" in Maui for many weeks; while each summer saw them at their beloved Victoria Beach cottage where many a family reunion took place. John passionately followed golf, football and track and field. His other hobbies included sketching portraits, drawing cartoons for his grand-kids, and crosswords (the harder the better). He never let living with a disability stand in the way of enjoying life. He may have had MS, but MS never had him. John always saw the good in people, and quietly, he was a true philanthropist. His warm smile, wry sense of humour, and gentle nature will be missed by all. Donations can be made to the MS Society of Manitoba in his memory.
Publish Date: Sep 28, 2013

JOHN KEMP John Kemp, 70. Beloved husband of Elizabeth and father of Paul, Michael and Janet Kemp passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 22 at Victoria General Hospital. John had requested, in place of a funeral, that family, friends, past colleagues and students, come to his home to raise a glass in his memory. Please join us on Wednesday, September 25 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Toasts from anyone who wishes will begin at 5:00 p.m. For address information, please email michaelkemp@rogers.com. Longer obituary to follow.
Publish Date: Sep 23, 2013

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 28, 2013

Condolences & Memories (36 entries)

  • I have been working at Kahana Falls Resort for more than 4 years now and that is where i met John and Elizabeth. They are a very nice couple and John always came to the Front desk and told stories with me on the downtime. He loved sports specially golf so most of the time, that is what he talked about. He is also a good artist and i've seen some of his drawings. The last time they came to Maui, he promised me that he will make a portrait for my son. I can't forget that night that he came to the front desk to say good bye to us and he said he can't wait to come back. He is a friend of everybody at Kahana Falls and i am sure, he will be missed. I am very saddened with the news that he passed away but I know that he is already at Peace. Mahalo and Aloha John! - Posted by: Roda Agapito (Acquaintance) on: Jan 08, 2014

  • What more can I say? John was a very kind-hearted, down-to-earth and considerate person. I have heard highly of what he had shown to the world. This is what people say about achieving Self-Actualization needs. John, you will be in the safe arms of our Lord. You will be remembered by your loving wife, Elizabeth, your children and grand children, friends, relatives and myself forever. Your devotion to the world had touched millions and your Love had moved mountains. Thank you for being such a nice client and friend! - Posted by: Harry Ong (Investment Advisor) on: Oct 10, 2013

  • What can you say about Mr. Kemp? There is so much that I admire in Mr. Kemp. I had the privilege of being one of his physical education students and also worked with him as a teacher at Churchill High School. Mr. Kemp as a teacher was passionate about working with students. He brought out the best in everyone. He loved what he did and that is very rare these days. Working along side with John as a teacher was also incredible. He had a great sense of humour and all staff loved John. I am so sorry I missed Mr. Kemp's funeral but it was great to see Mr. Kemp a number of times over the last 4 years when he introduced me to the Kim Family and Ian who called him "grandpa"! Mr. Kemp was special to Ian and from what we can see today, he was so special to many people around him. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Kemp family. We will miss you Mr. Kemp. - Posted by: Tom Rossi (Student and Colleague) on: Sep 29, 2013

  • As administrator and coach at the Legion Athletic Camp, I spent many an hour with John. He was an outstanding coach and human being. His greatest gift was that he could always make people laugh. His friendship was a personal treasure and although life and miles have separated us, John will always have a special place in my heart. My condolences to Liz and the family. I pray time will ease the pain of his passing. Time cannot erase the memories of John we hold so dear. It can only ease the impact of his loss. - Posted by: Brian Marshall (friend) on: Sep 29, 2013

  • Mr Kemp always had a gentle smile on his face and was a kind man to whomever he met. He will be missed and I am grateful to have met him. Deepest condolences to his family. - Posted by: Griffen Hirayama (Teacher at Churchill high school while I attended) on: Sep 29, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp was my Jr. High School History and PhysEd teacher in the late 60's at Cecil Rhodes. He was also my track & field coach. He was a true professional and mentor to many students at that time and no doubt throughout his career. He always pushed us and supported us to find the best in ourselves and I'm forever grateful for his leadership and direction. He wasn't just a teacher he was a true friend. It was always a pleasure to run into him at the school reunions. My deepest sympathy to Mrs. Kemp and the rest of the family. - Posted by: Grant Hardman (Former student at Cecil Rhodes School) on: Sep 28, 2013

  • Mr John Kemp. An extremely gentle and kind man who became my guardian, and guide, when I was a student at Churchill High School after immigrating from Belfast, Northern Ireland in July, 1985. He always looked out for me as he realized the struggles I faced trying to blend in to both a foreign country and society. As a stranger in a strange land, I spent countless hours chatting with him. His guidance and insight was inspirational. Mr. Kemp always had a most positive outlook on life. As a former student, I was blessed to have the honour of knowing him. Thank you for all of your gifts. My deepest condolences to the entire family. Sláinte, mo chara. Go n-éirí an t-ádh leat agus go mbeannaí Dia duit. (To your health, my friend. Good luck and God bless.) - Posted by: Greg McVicker (Former student - CHS - 1985 to 1988.) on: Sep 28, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp organized my fellow group of students into playing flag football in grade 9. I remember him taking me aside and saying that he thought I had the potential to play the quarterback position. To a young kid who knew nothing about anything, those words meant a lot. Someone actually cared about that unknown potential. I have never forgotten that discussion and I have never forgotten Mr. Kemp. He was a true mentor to all of us as shown by the multitude of tributes. My condolences go out to his family - I am sorry for your great loss. - Posted by: Dave Peterson (Former student (Cecil Rhodes)) on: Sep 28, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp's exuberance in teaching history helped to inflame a life long interest for me. I have always remembered him as one of my favorite teachers. My condolences to his family. - Posted by: Pat Steele (former student(Cecil Rhodes)) on: Sep 28, 2013

  • 'The Kemper'. The name John was lovingly given by the Churchill staff. The trademark smile and flashing eyes. How fortunate to have known John. He enriched the lives of all who knew him. A friend never to be forgotten. Salute to 'The Kemper.' Take care Liz and Family. Ann Klein - Posted by: Ann Klein (A friend) on: Sep 28, 2013

  • My condolences to the Kemp family on the loss of your dear husband and father. John (or Mr. Kemp as I knew him) was a great teacher, excellent coach and dear friend. He helped me realize my potential for track and field and was the reason behind the accomplishments that I experienced. He was a wonderful mentor and was appreciated by many people, especially me and my family. He will be missed. Thank you for being the great person that you were. Rest in peace my friend...xoxoxo. - Posted by: Gail Donhauser (nee Houlden) (Friend / Student) on: Sep 27, 2013

  • JOHN AND I BECAME CLOSE FRIENDS THE YEAR I TRANSFERRED FROM GENERAL WOLFE TO HUGH JOHN. WE ONLY WERE FRIENDS THAT ONE YEAR AND BOTH OF US MOVED ON IN SEPARATE DIRECTIONS. THE WEST END WAS TOUGH BACK THEN, AND JOHN DID NOT HAVE MANY MATERIAL THINGS AT THE TIME. THROUGH CIRCUMSTANCE I FAILED GRADE 7 AND 9 AND WAS SENT TO TEC VOC HIGH IN THE "TERMINAL CLASS". ANYWAYS I QUESTIONED THE SYSTEM AND GOT KICKED OUT OF SCHOOL. 17 YEARS OLD AND GRADE 9 EDUCATION. WENT ON TO ENLIST IN THE USMC, 1967, ATTENDED U OF TORONTO, U OF ALBERTA AND U OF MANITOBA, CMA ACCOUNTANTS PROGRAM, WROTE AMERICAN HEROES REMEMBERED IN 2005 AND RECD LETTERS FROM 2 PRESIDENTS AND SARAH PALIN, SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN, AND GOVERNOR JOHN HOVEN NORTH DAKOTA AND PRINCE CHARLES, NOT TOO SHABBY FOR A WEST END BOY, AND NOW TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GREAT LIFE OF MY OLD FRIEND JOHN KEMP, IS REWARDING TO THINK THAT ONE NEVER KNOWS OF THE POTENTIAL HIDDEN WITHIN US, JUST WAITING FOR THE RIGHT MOMENT. READING THE TRIBUTES FOR JOHN, GIVES ALL OF US GREAT CONFIDENCE THAT YOU CAN BECOME ANYTHING YOU WANT IN LIFE, JOHN IS PROOF OF THAT.!!!! WHAT A LEGACY TO LEAVE FRIENDS AND FAMILY. - Posted by: DREW DODDS (BOYHOOD FRIEND HUGH JOHN MACDONALD WEST END) on: Sep 27, 2013

  • I worked as a secretary at Churchill High School and Grant Park where I met John. He was a remarkable person - always smiling and we had some nice chats. He never seemed to let his disability stand in his way. My deepest sympathy to his family. - Posted by: Elaine Baxter (friend) on: Sep 27, 2013

  • Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Mike and his family. - Posted by: Jeff and Debbie Malpass (Friends of Mike) on: Sep 26, 2013

  • My deepest condolences to Mrs. Kemp and family. My life was changed forever in 1966 when I first met Mr. Kemp at Cecil Rhodes School, the greatest coach ever. He started me on my running path that I am still on today. He was also a great History teacher. It won't be long before he has all those heavenly angels whipped into shape. Rest in Peace dear friend. - Posted by: Grace Atkins (nee Houlden) (my coach/my mentor) on: Sep 26, 2013

  • Sad to hear that John has passed on. My condolences to Elizabeth and family. John and I attended Wolseley School, Laura Secord, Gordon Bell and United College together, often in the same class. We literally grew up together, and I have a ton of good memories of him. He was an amazing character, a terrific athlete, and an unforgettable friend. - Posted by: Charlie Keep (friend and school-mate: kindergarten to university) on: Sep 26, 2013

  • I am so sorry for your loss. I wish you peace and healing at this difficult time. - Posted by: Sandra Drosdowech (family friend) on: Sep 26, 2013

  • I wish that I could be there to join in raising a glass to Mr. Kemp's memory. I have lifelong memories of him; he was a great guy who always impressed me with his friendly and optimistic nature and was always welcoming to me. My thoughts are with all of the Kemp family at this difficult time. - Posted by: Peter Epp (Friend of Paul (and Michael and Janet)) on: Sep 25, 2013

  • Imagine a man, while struggling with his own health, out coaching track, being an amazing role model to hundreds of students, each and every morning, rain or shine. The students at Churchill High School learned about self discipline, commitment, determination, loyalty, love of sport, friendship, integrity and much more from the example set by Mr. Kemp. We were very blessed to have had him guide us through our junior high and high school years. - Posted by: Cynthia Van Dongen (Former Student at Churchill High School) on: Sep 25, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp was just a wonderful person to be around. I have so many memories of him but the thing that I will never forget about him is that smile...it said it all!! - Posted by: Sandra Tate (Former Student) on: Sep 25, 2013

  • I had the pleasure of running track with Mr. Kemp for grades 7 to 12 at Churchill High School. I still remember in grade 7 when they asked students to join the xc team. I had some bizarre concept of running across Canada. Mr Kemp was a wonderful man to all of us. I still have fond memories of running on Churchill Drive and the hallways at the school. He taught us at a very young age about dedication, hard work and pursuing goals. How fortunate all of us were that Mr. Kemp chose Churchill High School. I always really liked him and will always remember him. When I applied for Medical School he was one of my references. I chose Mr Kemp because he was one of the most supportive and motivating people I knew. My deepest condolences to his family. - Posted by: Jim Willows (Student/Track team) on: Sep 24, 2013

  • the tributes on this page say it all... John Kemp left a great legacy not only as a coach and a teacher, but as a kind and charismatic human being. I, too was at CHS in the 70's and had the chance to see him again at reunions and at special events many times. He always had a big smile. He is a man who will be missed and who will always be admired in the years to come. - Posted by: Kelly Parker-Kluger () on: Sep 24, 2013

  • Thanks for all your support Mr. Kemp. I was in track at Churchill during the 80's and remember often starting my day with track practice and Mr. Kemp to brighten up the mornings! - Posted by: Matthew Lawrence (former student) on: Sep 24, 2013

  • Former student of Churchill High that was not in track but always felt Mr. Kemp was good natured toward any student. I met his son Mike though work (Lisa Reid Audiology) years later and talked about his father and Churchill High. Our deepest condolences to Mike and the family. Jeff Hirayama and Lisa Reid Audiology. - Posted by: Jeff Hirayama (Student) on: Sep 24, 2013

  • I started playing basketball and running track at J. B. Mitchell. I've continued both to this day, and benefited physically and mentally from doing so. Coach Kemp made it possible. Now that I am an adult, I recognize how much time and effort he had to put into his coaching before and after class. Thanks Coach Kemp. - Posted by: Dan Rubin (J. B. Mitchell student "athlete") on: Sep 24, 2013

  • John and I both attended Gordon Bell high school. He was always a very popular guy and a terrific athlete, quarterback of the Gordon Bell Panthers Football Team. I think of those days often and the many mutual friends that we all made and still have and think of today....Rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: David Ayden (high school friend) on: Sep 24, 2013

  • Peter and Norma send their sincere condolences to the Kemp family on the loss of their father. They will all miss him greatly as will the many young people who were encouraged by his leadership and support to take on new challenges and to strive to do their very best. His children and grandchildren will miss his presence in their lives. - Posted by: Norma Drosdowech (family friend) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp when at Churchill High School helped me and many others succeed. John taught us more than how to run and jump and to play other sports like volleyball, he taught us what it meant to be dedicated and committed. His training principles helped me play university football, and he is the main reason I became a phys. ed teacher. He is also the reason I coach xc and track and field at St. Mary's. When Mr. Kemp coached, it was always about the athlete/student it was never about himself, I believe that is how he lived his life and that is why John is an inspiration and a life hero to me. Thank you Mr. Kemp and God Bless you Thank you to the Kemp family for sharing your husband and dad with us - Posted by: Demetro Danyluk (student/athlete/friend) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • Janet and family my thoughts and love are with you during this time. My condolences to you all on behalf of myself, Mike and my Mom. Love to all of you. - Posted by: Lisa Tottle (Friend of Janet's) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp was my phys ed teacher as well as my track coach at Churchill High School in the late 70's early 80's as well as at the peace garden track camp. I will always remember his smile when I ran well and his patient manner when I didn't. I have many memories of the track meets in Brandon as well. My condolences to his family. He will always have a place in my heart and mind. RIPL "coach Kemp". - Posted by: Mark Whettell () on: Sep 23, 2013

  • I used to run track on Mr. Kemp's JB Mitchell's track team and he was an awesome coach. He was just as proud of his team as we were of him. - Posted by: Penny E (Student) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp was a very inspiring coach and a great teacher! I have many great memories of the track program at Churchill High! - Posted by: Ron Kristjansson (student) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • I first met Coach Kemp while running cross country with Westdale, later at Oak Park and then with the Raiders. Although he was not my coach, he was a very thoughtful, kind and well respected man. The laughs, smiles and encouragement from Coach Kemp were and always will be appreciated from many many athletes. My deepest condolences to his family. - Posted by: Cyndi Kohuska (Peace Gardens and track in general) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • Mr. Kemp gave me my start in running. I have never stopped. I have coached students over the years and used Mr. Kemp's techniques. He has been such an influence in my life. When I think about those early morning practises at JB Mitchell I can only smile. He was a fantastic coach and mentor. My heart goes out to all who loved him - and I know that is so many many people. - Posted by: Barb Pullan (former student) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • Thanks Mr. Kemp, for keeping me smiling and running; like you and your terrific children. - Posted by: Sean Sweet (Friend of Paul & Mike. Was an athlete coached by Mr Kemp. ) on: Sep 23, 2013

  • I met "Mr.Kemp" in early September of 1970 when I joined his cross country track team. I was the slowest boy on the team for 3 straight years at JB Mitchell Jr. High, but John seemed only interested that I was in love with the sport. He loved to win, but he sure had a spot in his heart for those of us who were so much less talented, but willing. I've thought of John often over the years and will miss him. - Posted by: Mike Guld (Track coach) on: Sep 23, 2013

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