Kenneth Martin Gehrels

“But I trust in you O Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hands…” Psalm 31:14
Pastor Ken Gehrels of Kemptville passed away peacefully at home with his family after a valiant battle with cancer.
Ken was a vibrant leader, a man of deep convictions, a friend of God and countless others. Many years of schooling earned him a Bachelor of Science, Master of Divinity and a Doctorate of Worship Studies. His faith was evident in the way he reached out to serve the young and old. It was common to see him sitting on the floor at the front of the church surrounded by kids, sharing a message with them. Sharon and Ken made a great team together for over 40 years, whether curling, sailing or at home together. Ken’s quiet, competitive spirit easily lent itself to running, which grew from 5km races to marathons, and inspired his children to pursue their own running passions. He took great joy in encouraging his children as they built their lives and pursued their own passions. He enfolded his sons-in-law and daughters-in-law and fathered them as his own. As an Opa, he had a special love for each of his grandchildren and was proud of their everyday accomplishments. Reading stories to them over Facebook Messenger became a welcome distraction during COVID times. Family meant a lot to him as was evidenced by a 38-year tradition of camping and Christmas celebrations with extended family. Ken will be deeply missed by many.
Beloved husband of Sharon (de Vries). Loving dad of Jason and his wife Angela, Kevin and his wife Carmella, Alisa and her husband Steven, and
Kellina and her husband Stephen. Cherished Opa of Simon, Seth, Claire, Mark, Arden and Emry. Dear son of Jack and Lenie Gehrels. Greatly missed by his sisters Angela and her husband Karl, Betty-Ann and her husband Evan, brother-in-law Bill, and sister-in-law Lynda. He was predeceased by his brother Jim and his sister Corrine. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, the entire de Vries family, and many relatives and friends.
Due to Covid restrictions, a private Visitation and Graveside Service will be held. A memorial video may be accessed here
A public funeral procession past the cemetery is being planned for Saturday, May 15, 2021 with further details on how to participate will be posted under the News section at www.kcrc.ca
By family request donations may be made in Memory of Ken to Lifewater Canada (www.lifewater.ca).
Condolences in either written or video format may be sent directly to kengehrelsfuneral@gmail.com
Arrangements entrusted to the
Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836)