Obituary of EDWARD J. KELSCH

EDWARD J. KELSCH Last Alarm It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden passing of our dear dad, Edward Kelsch at the age of 73 on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at Concordia Hospital. He will be sadly missed by his daughter Kim Horrox (Lindsay), grandchildren Bailee and Austin, son Michael (Arlene); brothers and sisters Eileen Nichols (John), Raymond Kelsch (Barb), Theresa Dudeck (Noel), Gordie Kelsch and numerous nieces and nephews. Ed was predeceased by his wife Joan, parents John and Edna Kelsch, and siblings John Kelsch, Nora Loginski and Betty David. Ed was born in Winnipeg in 1938 and lived his entire life in West Kildonan. Ed attended school at West Kildonan Collegiate and St Paul High School. After leaving school Ed entered in an apprenticeship in plumbing, which he completed and attained his Journeyman Ticket in 1960. The same year he married the love of his life Joan. In 1963 Ed entered a new phase of his work career, he joined the Winnipeg Fire Department and served there for 35 years retiring as Captain. Ed was a member of St. Anthony’s Parish since 1946 and also served with the Knights of Columbus serving a Deputy Grand Knight, Lecturer and Public relations officer. Ed was also a 4th degree Knight with Cardinal Flahiff Assembly Service as faithful pilot, and faithful captain. Ed also loved to bowl. He bowled for many years in several leagues, St. Joes’ Men Club (52 years), St. Anthony’s church league, Mercantile, Steel & Machinery, and Northern Mixed. Ed enjoyed every moment he could with his grandchildren, Bailee and Austin. Bailee was the apple of his eye and he was forever looking for new and inventive ways to spoil her. He was also very proud of his grandson Austin and all the adventures that Special Olympics brought him. He was especially proud to see Austin represent Canada in the World Games. Ed would spend the spring and fall in Houston, Texas with his son Michael and his wife Arlene. He enjoyed spending time with them, and getting away from Winnipeg winters. Pallbearers are Brian Kelsch, Len Small, Eddie Nichols, Gordie Skazyk, Justin Kelsch and Austin Horrox. Honourary pallbearers are Dave Melnyk, Jack Nichol, Frank Lanyon and Peter Jansen. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, December 19 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, 250 Burrin Avenue with viewing beginning at 9:30 a.m. Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to honour Ed may make a donation to Special Olympics Manitoba 304-145 Pacific Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2Z6. The Fire is Out and the Smoke has Cleared