Harry Kehler

Obituary

Harry Kehler passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Bethesda Regional Health Centre, Steinbach, MB.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Norma and their children Pearl (Hank), Bev (Martin), Tim (Nicky), Curtis (Teresa), former daughter-in-law Debbie, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, which he cherished and adored, Scott (Sammie), Dustin, Hope, Connor, Jesse, Landyn, Jack and Hunter.

Harry was predeceased by his parents Martin and Helena and siblings Peter, Abe, Nettie, Ed, Mary, Kathy, Helen and John.

Harry was born on September 27, 1938. He married the love of his life, Norma, on August 16, 1958.

Harry and Norma owned the Sunset Motel in Steinbach from 1968 to 1970. They moved to Winnipeg in 1971 where Harry was a driver for Perths Dry Cleaners. Harry partnered up with Mitch Oaks in March 1975 and opened up a Minute Muffler Shop that they operated for 50 years.

Harry retired in 1999 and he and Norma moved back to Steinbach.

Enjoy life to the fullest was Harry’s motto. He loved snowmobiling and quadding in his younger years. The past 10 years he enjoyed making trails out at the “shak” and riding around in his side by side.

Harry loved to build things. He built his and Normas first home in Steinbach and also built Pearl and Hanks first home. Over the years he built numerous cabins, garages, playhouses, cat houses, sheds, and more recently birdhouses.

Harry was passionate about hockey from the day he strapped on his first pair of skates and put a stick on the ice. He played serious hockey in his youth and was given the nickname “Flash” due to his speed and agility. Harry was a hockey fan all of his life and sports channels were ever so important. This last season with the Jets was a fitting end for such a faithful fan. Go Jets!

Harry had a zest for life and a great sense of humour. Throughout his battle with cancer, he was able to keep positive and make light the journey with a joke here and a little smile there. During this difficult time, he was a pleasure to be with, his sense of humour intact.

At the end of his life Harry was at peace with the Lord. We are confident that he now awaits us all in paradise.

Special thanks to the Palliative Care Team, and the staff at Bethesda Regional Health Centre.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB., with viewing beginning at 11:30 a.m.