Kempel, Otto
Otto Kempel
It is with profound sadness that we announce that Otto Kempel has passed away. Otto left the world peacefully in his home on Sunday, August 4th, 2024, with his family by his side.
Otto was born on April 10th, 1937, to Isabelle and Otto Sr. in Moose Jaw, SK. He grew up on south hill, attending King Edward School. Otto’s love for sport began at a young age with pick up hockey, basketball, and baseball. Those were the days when kids would play outside for hours, and Otto spoke of these times often with fond memories.
Otto moved to AE Peacock Technical High School in grade 9. It was at that time that he almost died when he came down with rheumatic fever. He spent almost a year recovering from this. He always talked about how fortunate he was to make it through that.
Otto’s love of sport continued throughout high school where he played on the basketball team. Otto also began working at the CPR in the evenings at the time as a rail car checker.
After graduating, Otto spent time working at the CPR in a variety of rolls. He finally started at CGTX in 1959 as a Clerk. Otto would go on to become the plant superintendent of CGTX until he retired in 1994.
In 1961 while bowling, Otto met the love of his life, Jean Jorgensen, and neither of them ever bowled again. Jean and Otto got married on July 21st, 1962, and the rest is history. Otto loved Jean right to the end and was always by her side throughout life. They both enjoyed golf, the Moose Jaw Warriors, and walking in Wakamow.
Otto was an avid curler, golfer, and sports enthusiast. He served on the board of the Moose Jaw Golf Course and was one of the original shareholders when the Warriors moved to Moose Jaw. Sports have always been a staple in Otto and Jean’s life. Whether it was watching the Warriors, Riders, Blue Jays, Raptors, or watching and cheering on their grandchildren in their sports activities, he received so much joy from this.
Otto had many hobbies throughout the years. He spent hours working on photography and taking pictures. He also enjoyed woodworking, creating many cherished projects displayed in the Kempel home. He and Jean also planted a huge garden each season and enjoyed the fruits of their labours.
He was predeceased by his parents, Isabell and Otto Sr. Otto is survived by his beloved wife, Jean; children, Richard (JoAnne) and Bret (Deana); grandchildren: Megan (Tyler), Caitlin (Rory), Ada, and Carly; great-grandchildren, Anna and Ben; and sister, Jacqueline (Roy).
A Memorial Service to Celebrate Otto’s Life will be held on Saturday, October 19th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest Golf Course Clubhouse, 1599 Main St N in Moose Jaw. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Otto’s name be made to the Moose Jaw Health Foundation, 55 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw, SK S6J 0C2 or Wakamow Valley Authority, P.O. Box 1266 Moose Jaw, SK S6H 4P9, a place that was close to Otto’s heart.
Otto Barry Kempel will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.
Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Andrew Pratt, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Jean, I am so sorry to hear of Otto’s passing.
After many years of being a couple I am sure that you have many memories..ie golf, raising the boys, and everything that you two were involved in.
Just remember all of the memories.
Jean and family so sorry to hear of Otto’s passing, he will be missed sending hugs to all
Jean and family..I am so sorry to hear of Otto’s passing. I always enjoyed meeting Otto and you at the Hillcrest GC. Otto always had a smile on his face and a kind greeting. Cherish the many wonderful memories.
We are so sorry to hear of Otto’s passing. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Jean , Bret, Rick and family,
I want to pass on my condolences on the passing of Otto. He was a great man , always enjoyed our talks and time together. His smile will last forever, you’re all in my thoughts.
Rod Decksheimer
Remember the good times Jean and family and Otto will always be with you.
Thoughts and prayers for all of you at this time of sorrow .
Jean, Rick, Bret and Family,,
We are so sorry on hearing of Otto’s passing. Our heart felt condolences. Cherish the great memories.
With deepest sympathy,
Lloyd and Sandi Luhning
I met Otto at woodworking in Riverview.
Nice honest down to earth man.
Bret,
Sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Lot’s of great memories growing up on Albert Street.
My condolences to the entire family.
Doug
Jean. And family I am so sorry for your loss. It was always nice to see you both when you popped into the shop.
Jean and family I know your loss is great. Sending big hugs today
Jean and family, sorry to hear of Otto’s passing. My condolences.
Otto always had a huge smile and a kind word that will be remembered by all.
Jean and family- Deepest sympathy to all upon Otto’s passing. Seems like only yesterday that I met Otto in 1969 when I was starting my working career. Always had time to chat. We will all miss him for sure.
– Garry and Kathy Downton.
Jean and family our deepest sympathy to all of you Otto was a nice kind person & cousin who we never go to see much since we moved away..Remember all the happy memories it will help heal your broken hearts but you will never forget……. RIP Otto…