WILLIAM ROSS KIEPER

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

WILLIAM ROSS KIEPER Ross Kieper of Russell, Man. slipped away peacefully on January 6, 2001 at the age of 91. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Wilda ("Spike") two sons, Randy (Rhonda) of Vancouver, John (Karen) and grandchildren, Shelby and Luke of Kamloops; two brothers, Willis (Verna) of Russell and Bill (Ivy) of Kelowna. Ross was predeceased by two brothers, Tom and Alex. He leaves behind many close relatives in a large extended family and many friends in the community. He will be sadly missed and always remembered for his cheery disposition and kindness, his sense of humour, his farmers fixes and his recollection of past events. Ross was born on the family farm in Minniska district on February 20, 1909 where he attended school and later boarded in Russell to attend High School. He bought grain for U.G.G. in Inglis and Cracknell and worked several years as an underground miner in Northern Manitoba and Ontario. With the outbreak of the Second World War, Ross enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force and trained as a wireless operator and radio mechanic in Winnipeg, was posted to Kingston and then to England. Following the war, he returned to farming in Russell where he met and married Spike Adolphe. For the next 30 years he was primarily a grain farmer and family man. In 1977 Ross and Spike became snowbirds, spending the winters at Pine to Palm Park in Weslaco, Texas for the ensuing 21 years, where they cultivated many new friendships across North America. Ross was a life member of the Legion and his active octogenarian years took a regular shift at his nephews beekeeping operation, played golf and regularly drove the countryside with his brother Willis. In his 87th year, he became a grandfather and thoroughly enjoyed his new responsibilities. Cremation has taken place and a funeral service was held at Knox United Church in Russell on January 9 with Rev. Ruth Lumax officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rosss memory to a charity of your choice. Braendle-Bruce Funeral Service of Russell, Man. in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 20, 2001