John CLEMENS

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CLEMENS: John Peter Clemens March 25, 1924 - March 30, 2013. It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Peter, beloved husband of Doris, father of Jan, Dave (Odette), Ger, Richard, Molly (Lawrence Thompson), Jim, and Donna (Normand Bisson). Grandfather to 15 grandchildren, great-grandfather known as “Papa” to 9 great-grandchildren. Dad was born in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, USA to John and Tressa Clemens March 25, 1924. Dad lost both his parents at a very young age. He had 5 sisters and 2 brothers, all have predeceased him. Dad worked many different jobs over the next few years. On January 6th, 1943 he joined RCAF and was an amazing electrician. Dad met the love of his life, our Mom, Doris Rae Smith of Wellwood (Carberry). They married on July 8th 1950. Dad always called Mom “Dote” in a very loving way. From this marriage they raised 7 children, 4 sons, and 3 daughters, whom he loved very much. While in the forces they traveled all over Canada. Dad retired from the forces as a Master Warrant Officer in 1977. The family settled in Rivers, MB in 1977. Dad started his own business J.P.C Electric. While doing some of the jobs he quite often took some of the boys with him to help but also even the girls. Dad fully retired around the 1980’s. Dad had a lot of passions in his life - Number 1 was his faith in God. Dad knew the Bible inside out. He taught his children the great love of Our Lord and Savior. Dad instilled the love of music in all his children, taught them to play the guitar and sing a lot of the older songs that he grew up with. Dad taught himself to play when he was only 8 years old. Some of the highlights of his singing family were many: Appearing on the TV show The Co-op Hour, singing on the radio and TV talent shows and entertaining at many different care homes for the residents. Dad also was playing with the Twilighters of Souris, the Legare Band, he also played and sang at Music In The Park in Souris. Dad also enjoyed swimming, camping, cards. Dad had many friends, too many to mention them all. They are not forgotten, you all know who you are. Dad’s last few days on this earth were spent with his family surrounding him singing two evenings in a row. Dad your family misses you and love you dearly. Dad you left a legacy of music to your family and everyone who knew you. You were always therewhen we needed you,No task too great or small.With a loving heart and willing hand for us you did them all. Thanks for the years you gave us For the time we sharedYou will never be forgotten Dad, Because in our heartsYou’re always there.God made a father so loving and kind, and we had the honor of calling him ours. It only takes a little spaceto write how much we miss you,but it will take the rest of our lives to forget the day we lost you.

As published in Brandon Sun on Apr 20, 2013