KENNETH DONALD CARELS

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

KENNETH DONALD CARELS It is with great sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of Ken on January, 26, 2005, with his wife and daughters at his side. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Ellen; his children, Michelle Dempster (Paul), Carleen Carels (Mark Rogers); his grandchildren, Emily and Alexandra; his mother Julia; his sister Bette Leganchuk (Curtis); his brother Terry Carels (Louise); brother-in-law Al Cooper (Lynn); and nieces and nephews. Ken was predeceased by his father Charles; in-laws, Wilfred and Gertrude Cooper; and his grandparents. Ken was born in Melita on January 19, 1938. He was employed by the Royal Bank of Canada, in Brandon and Crystal City. He returned to Melita in 1958 to manage the Red and White Store for his father and taking ownership in 1973. On August 4, 1958 Ken married Ellen Cooper of Minnedosa. They resided in Melita where they raised their children. He served as Councillor for the Town of Melita from 1971 to 1980 and Mayor from 1980 to 2002. He served as a MAUM Director from 1978 to 1982 and a UMM Director from 1982 to 1998. He also served on the MHO, Manitoba Surface Rights Board, Wheat Belt Community Futures, MGRA, MARRC and others. Ken was an active member of the Lions Club, Kinsmen, K-40, Chamber of Commerce, Curling Club, Arena Board, Sacred Heart Church and many more. Ken was honoured to be presented with a commemorative medal marking the 125th anniversary of Confederation of Canada in 1993 and being named an honorary life member of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities in 2004. Ken had a passion for sports and loved curling, bowling, golfing, baseball, football and playing cards. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of play and laughter that grandchildren bring. Family gatherings were very special to Ken and he will be truly missed. Easing the journey for Ken and his family was the professional care and love shown by the doctors and nurses at Melita Hospital and Grace Hospital during his illness and spiritual guidance from Fr. Eric Giddins, Deacons Wilfrid Barre and Murray Teetaert. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on January 29 by Fr. Eric Giddins, assisted by Fr. Michel Nault, Fr. Darius Biliran, Deacon Wilfrid Barre and Paul Fewings as altar server. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Melita Palliative Care, Melita Sacred Heart Church or Manitoba CancerCare.

Make a donation to

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 09, 2005