DePape, Kerry Joseph
Kerry Joseph DePape
It is with great sorrow that the family of Kerry Joseph DePape announce his sudden and unexpected passing on Saturday, June 1st, 2019.
Kerry was born July 11th, 1963 in Gainsborough, SK to Joe and Elaine (Putland) DePape. He was the proud older brother to Taylore, Amber and Lorelei. When Kerry was 5 the family moved to Churchbridge, SK where he took all of his schooling, graduating in 1981. This is where he met the love of his life, Cheryl Thies. After graduation, he moved to Moose Jaw, SK to attend the Saskatchewan Technical Institute where he received his diploma in Architectural Engineering Technology. Kerry started at RL Cushing Millwork on June 6th, 1984 as an Estimator, and then Project Manager. Following the retirement of Kerry’s mentor Bob Wood in 2005, Kerry and Kelly Staples ran Cushing Millwork together until Kelly’s retirement in 2018. At this time Kerry became President of the company. His employees and their work were always top of his mind and Kerry was very proud of their projects including the Canadian Embassy apartments in Japan, Dr. FH Wigmore Regional Hospital, and most recently the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital. Kerry firmly believed in contributing to the betterment of his industry and served 8 years as National Director for the Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada as well as many years with the Saskatchewan Chapter. At the time of his passing he was the Chairman of the Manual Committee developing the North American Architectural Woodwork Standards. It was through this association that Kerry and Cheryl went on many trips seeing the sights of Canada and have many strong friendships in their AWMAC family.
Kerry and Cheryl were married on August 4th, 1984 in Churchbridge and made their home in Moose Jaw. They were blessed with three children: Lauren, Alyssa and Grayson. Kerry was very involved in his children’s activities, from doing the girl’s hair for dance when Cheryl was at work, coaching Grayson in basketball, and attending all the theatre productions, band concerts and music recitals that all the kids were involved in. The family took many vacations together and the girls treated Kerry to many musical sing a longs on their road trips which he eventually grew to tolerate.
Cheryl always had many visions for their home and yard and Kerry always lovingly obliged, perhaps with an eye roll but you could be guaranteed he took Cheryl’s ideas and took it up a notch, far beyond Cheryl’s expectations. It didn’t matter if he was working with wood, renos or landscaping, Kerry was a skilled craftsman.
Besides his family, his next love would be the Saskatchewan Roughriders (as long as Rod Black wasn’t commentating) and spending time with their close friends Ken and Angela McDougall with a good rum. Many wonderful memories were created on the “DeDougall” family vacations.
Kerry’s pride and joy was his grandson Leo! Leo’s love for his Papa was unmatched and squeals and giggles emerged the moment Papa came through the door.
A man of faith, Kerry was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, serving the Lord through work on many committees, and as President, Elder and sound man. He was a member of the Building committee that coordinated the fundraising and building of the Church on Paul Drive. Kerry designed the church building and built the altar furnishings.
He was predeceased by his grandparents: George and Lucile Putland, Mary and Frank DePape; and nephew, Joshua Thies. Kerry leaves to mourn his wife of nearly 35 years, Cheryl; children: Lauren (Jordan) Gottselig and Leo, Alyssa (Justin Wilk), and Grayson; parents, Joe and Elaine DePape of Churchbridge; sisters: Taylore DePape, Cassedi, Blade and Orion – Stony Plain, AB; Amber (Kelly) Palmer – Churchbridge, SK; Justin (Keri) Racquel and Easton – Camrose, AB; Amanda (Justin) Kornaga, Joe and Heath – Churchbridge, SK; Lorelei (Dwain) Pulock, Chantelle and Shaelynn – Saskatoon, SK; in-laws, Wilfred and Doreen Thies; brothers-in-law: Russell (Lorie) Thies – Churchbridge, SK, Nick (Kelsey), Sawyer, Luke; Jeff (Valerie) Thies, Mitchell and Daniel – Cochrane, AB; sister-in-law, Gaylene (Chip) Putland – Churchbridge, SK, Thomas, Austin and Hannah; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.
The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 8th, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. in Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 15 Paul Dr, Moose Jaw, SK with Reverend John Kreutwieser officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made to the Riverside Mission, 40 Manitoba St E, Moose Jaw SK S6H 0A2 or the Peacock Centennial Auditorium renewal fundraiser at newseats.ca. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Our condolences to you and your family, Cheryl. Thinking of you.
Shameem and Duane Arndt
Thoughts and prayers with all of you at this sad time. Remember the good times and Kerry will be with you.
Heartfelt condolences from our Family to yours Cheryl, cherish all your wonderful memories and take care of each other
I was so saddened to hear of Kerry’s passing. I worked with Kerry over the years when RL Cushing was the supplier of all the desks we ordered for SPM Furniture Services. He was was always generous with his time and willing to talk. My heart breaks for you all you will be in my prayers.
We’re all going to miss you Kerry. You’re a great man who always put others first
To Cheryl and family:
Kerry was one of those people I looked forward to working with on many projects including Construction Association events. His wit and laughter overcame almost any obstacle.
Cheryl may you and your family find peace and comfort knowing Kerry has been called to be somewhere else but will remain in your hearts always.
Cheryl and Families,
Cherish the Great Memories. Our most sincerest condolences.
Most Sincerely,
Lloyd and Sandi Luhning
From your work family at Cushing Millwork we stand at your side and share your loss. Kerry was Cushing Millwork in every way, and we can never replace all he brought to us. His memory will always be part of us, and we will do all we can to continue and move forward in honour of him and everyone else that came before us.
I cannot imagine the pain your family is going through at this time. My most heartfelt condolences, hugs and prayers for all of you
Cheryl and family
Dave and I are saddened to hear of Kerry’s passing. They became friends while serving on the board of the Moose Jaw Construction Association, the industry they both loved and Kerry was so passionate about. He will be greatly missed.
May the wonderful memories you shared together bring you comfort and you are in our prayers.
Cheryl and family,
My heart breaks for you! You were such an example of a beautiful loving couple! I’m sorry I can’t attend Kerry’s funeral as we’re out of town. I love you very much and am praying for strength and comfort for you! ❤️
Sad to hear such a young man Mr. Kerry DePape had to pass away. I would like to share my condolence with the family, also share with you the comforting words from the Bible mention in
Revelation 21: 1-4.
Cheryl and family;
I am so sorry for your loss. The “Cushing family” meant a lot to my dad and I am so glad that Kerry was a part of that. I know he held Kerry in high regard as did the rest of our family. Kerry always struck me as low key and easy going yet highly capable and accomplished. I will always remember the wonderful tribute he gave to my dad last year at his memorial. He was so respectful yet captured his personality and humour so well.
This is such a difficult time and you are all in our thoughts.
Julie Wood and Paul, Stefan and Kieran Ruchlewicz
Cheryl,
So very sorry to hear of Kerry’s passing.
Our sincerest condolences.
I worked for several years at S. N. Roy and Associates and was in charge of dispensing plans for the Moose Jaw Construction Association and helping with their banquets. I remember Kerry very well. He was so very pleasant whenever he came in. Later I saw him when he was planning countertops for the laboratory at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Hospital where I work. May God bless your family at this difficult time.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May the memories bring you comfort and peace.
It’s been many years since we seen each other. In the few years we got to know each other, although many years ago, I never forgot about you, Cheryl or Kerry. You two made a place in my heart. My condolences to you and your family. May the angles hover over you and your family through this time and forever. Will be thinking about you and sending prayers your way. Have missed you both.
Cheryl, I’m so sorry. My heart breaks for you and your family.
Our deepest sympathy to your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers
Gerald and Sandra Jean
Warman,Sk
My deepest sympathies to you and your family on the news of Kerry’s passing. May the memories you have be a blanket of love as you carry on in the days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Please pass this on to family as I knew Kerry’s parents and also yours. Take care and Gods comfort in the days ahead.
It is with great sadness and surprise to learn of the passing of Mr. Kerry Depape from the most recent CBC Saskatchewan’s daily subscription, Monday to Friday emails: “Pilot in plane crash that killed 3 from Sask. had expired student permit.” Cheryl and Kerry were one of the most lovely couple I could have as neighbours on 3 Ave N.E. in Moose Jaw. And Kerry was a quiet neighbour, a dedicated husband and father, always ready to lend a hand. To Cheryl and family, please accept my sincere sympathies and condolences.
Jean-Louis Desrosiers CD
Master Corporal (retired)
Royal Canadian Air Force