KENDERDINE: Richard Gordon Kenderdine of Livelong passed away on Monday, August 27, 2012 at the age of 81 years. The first words that come to mind when I think of my dad are kind and empathetic. He always made the effort to say the kind things. He had a great sense of humour and loved to tease. He would say something quite ridiculous in a very serious tone to see if he could get you to believe it even for a second. He had the ability to find the right things to say to lighten your mood and your heart. Everyone always left feeling happier after spending time with dad. He loved to sit and smoke and could peacefully sit for hours on the deck or at the lake or at a fire. He was always the entertainer and never needed to be entertained. I don't think he was ever bored. Dad loved to stay home and seldom expressed any desire to go anywhere else. He lived his life on his own terms and for the most part was able to do what made him happy and peaceful. He was stubborn, determined and innovated when he wanted something and loved to make a deal. Dad was very clever. You could just tell dad was very smart. His mind was always active. He attended the U of S and attained his diploma in agriculture. He had lots and lots of common sense. You could get advice from him on many different types of things. He had a good sense of the ridiculous and loved to laugh and tell stories of ridiculous things or something he said that he got someone to believe for a little while. Dad was very capable mechanically and could fix most anything. He really loved old machinery and often spoke of working on the old steam engines at the museum. His mom often told the story of how as a child, he took an old washing machine motor and made a little car. Dad was a great storyteller. He had a whole arsenal of funny stories, which he exaggerated at will. He had a real ability to "spin a tale". Both Dad and Sheila were always very welcoming and hospitable. You always felt Dad was so glad you came to visit. He always had time for anyone who stopped by. Everyone got a coffee and a laugh. There were always people stopping by. For many, a trip to Turtle Lake wasn't complete without a visit with my dad. Dad had a real kinship with children. They were always drawn to him. He always had ice cream or candies. He would "team up" with kids to hide candies or pull a little prank. They always remembered him. Dad was always proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. "That sure is a dandy little gal or guy" he would say. He often spoke with great affection about his mother and grandmother Nelson. He was always proud of his dad's family and in particular spoke of his grandfather Kenderdine who was an artist. From him he had a keen sense of art and encouraged both family and friends with their artistic talents. Dad often spoke with pride of his daughters and was always generous with his praise on their many accomplishments and just on who they were as people. Dad camped at Turtle Lake as a young man and decided that was where he wanted to live and moved his family there shortly after. He loved to see people enjoy the lake. Over the years, he gave hundreds or maybe thousands of boat rides and had that many fires where everyone was welcome to come and sit and enjoy some company. He gave garden space to anyone who wanted it and loved to see people enjoy their gardens. He was always so accommodating to try to make sure people enjoyed their time at the lake. We all have a big thank you for dad for all our great memories of Turtle Lake. A talk about my dad wouldn't be complete without mentioning his heritage. He would proudly say he was descended from the Vikings. To be told you "sure could see the Viking in you" was high praise from my dad. He loved to tell of how superior the Vikings were compared to other nationalities to see if he could get a rise out of you. Dad was very blessed to have Sheila and would often say how wonderful he thought she was. She made his life very comfortable and it was she that made it possible for him to spend his last days at home instead of in hospital where he didn't want to be. She respected him and accepted him as he was. Very seldom did you hear "Dad" or "Gordon". It was always "Dad and Sheila" or "Gordon and Sheila". As a couple, they were an inspiration to others on how two very dissimilar people can respect and appreciate each other and be happy and enjoy life. Dad, we will miss your welcome, your hug, your laughter, your teasing, and your wisdom. See you when we get up there. Oh and Dad, try not to make too much mischief in heaven. I know the angels are already laughing at your stories and that heaven is a happier place with you in it. The Graveside Service for Gordon took place on Saturday, August 25, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Dan Gies officiating. The pallbearers were Gordon's grandchildren, Austin Wue, Styven Alexander, Justin Alexander, Brandon Alexander, Crystal Kenney and Dianna Kenderdine-Wilson. Honorary bearers were all of Gordon's Family. His family gave the eulogy. Interment took place at Livelong Cemetery. MARSHALL'S FUNERAL HOME LTD. of St. Walburg, Saskatchewan administered the funeral arrangements. CARD OF THANKS The family of Gordon Kenderdine would like to thank all of our family, friends and neighbors for their support and caring during this difficult time. Thank you to Pastor Dan Gies for the beautiful service, to those who acted as bearers, and to the LADRA ladies who provided the lunch. Thank you to MARSHALL'S FUNERAL HOME LTD. for your care and compassion. Thank you to everyone who brought food and flowers, and made phone calls to show support. Your thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. The Kenderdine Family ____________________________________________________
