KEN GEBLER (published on January 31, 2009)
| KEN GEBLER The children of Ken Gebler sadly announce his death at the age of 61. Ken bravely battled cancer for over 12 years with amazing strength and courage. Ken passed away peacefully at Neepawa Hospital on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. Born on May 24, 1947 at the old Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, Ken was raised in Kelwood by his parents Gary and Scotty Gebler. He joined the Royal Canadian Airforce in 1967 at the age of 19, and his 24 year career as a Military Policeman, literally took him around the world. He served in Gimli, Val D'Or Quebec, Lahr Germany, Shilo, and Toronto. Additionally, he had tours of duty with the United Nations in Damascus, the Golan Heights and Tiberius. Ken retired from the military in 1990 and joined the Commissioners in Winnipeg. In 1995, failing health required him to again retire from service. Ken married Joan Kuyp in 1968 and later divorced in 1977. This union produced two children, Chad Gebler and Dionne Kuyp. In 2000 Ken moved back to Kelwood to live with and assist his elderly parents. While living in Kelwood, Ken served on the Legion Committee and also as President of the Lions Club until once again, due to his failing health, he made the difficult decision to enter into fulltime retirement. He is survived by his mother Mozelle Scotty , his son Chad, his daughter Dionne and three grandchildren Cameron, Benjamin and Jeremy. He is also survived by his cousin Ruth Neill, niece Anita Gebler and nephew Sean Gebler. Ken was predeceased by his father Gerhardt Gary in 2003 and his brother Gerald Jerry in 2005. Ken enjoyed curling, playing pool, shuffle board and of course playing rummy or poker. If you weren't careful when playing him in any of those games, you could easily loose quite a bit of money! Ken was very kind hearted without prejudice. His door was always open to anyone regardless of race, color or creed. In Winnipeg he would leave his door unlocked with the belief that if someone came to steal something, then they must have needed it more than he and they could have it. We would sincerely like to thank all the family and friends who have expressed sympathy, compassion and support. Thanks also to Dr. Poettcker and the wonderful nursing staff at Neepawa Hospital. A special thank-you to Ron and Ruth Whitelock, Cathy Woodcock and Tracey Poncsak who were at Dad's bedside during his passing. Also a heart felt thank-you to Carol Chesney, Sid Wrightson, Sid Burton, Ken Sheller, Keith and Ruth Neill for always being there for Dad and helping him out with everything and anything. We would also like to thank the wonderful Cancer Care volunteers, especially Mabel for being at Dad's bedside in the hospital. A Graveside ceremony for family and close friends will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2009 at the Kelwood Cemetery. Dobchuk Funeral Home McCreary, Manitoba Telephone (204) 835-2004 |
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