Obituary of Gary Kivell
Gary Allan James Kivell peacefully departed this world on July 26th, 2019 and joined his very best friend, Jesus.
Born March 19, 1947, Gary was a very well known professional soloist who travelled extensively across Canada and the United States. He was the recipient of many awards for his musical ability but he always gave the glory to Jesus. After his marriage to Sherrill Pearson, they were blessed with four wonderful children; Brian (BJ), Ben (Sarah), Syndie, and Suzie, who inherited Gary's talent and love for music. They traveled together as a family (The Kivell Family Singers) for 14 years, sharing his passion for heaven and his never wavering faith in Jesus.
He lived his life as Jesus’ hands and voice extended to everyone he came in contact with and his loving presence while on this earth was more impactful than anyone knew.
There were numerous times in his life when his loved ones thought they were going to say their final goodbye but God knew he still had work to do. Gary Is now in heaven and rejoicing with all of those who have gone before him.
The family is so thankful to the staff and volunteers of Chatham-Kent Hospice who went above and beyond in caring for Gary and the family during this difficult time. The level of professionalism and loving care from this organization touched their hearts and made his death a little easier.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to two very special PSWs; Linda Sinclair and Linda Parkinson. These two wonderful women helped with Gary’s care at home for many months before he went into hospice. The love and tenderness that they showed to both Gary and Sherrill will not be forgotten.
Life long friends Rick & Gayle Greven and Sue Cornelius have been a tremendous support to the entire family for many years. Sherrill and the kids wish to express their love and thankfulness to you!
The family also wishes to thank all of those new and old friends who have brought meals, provided respite care, or provided care-giver pampering! (Thank you Sandra).
Gary had a deep love for music and throughout his lifetime there were many songs that were special to him, but his two favourite songs were undoubtedly No One Ever Cared For Me Like Jesus; and Great is Thy Faithfulness.
A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Paul’s Congregational Church in Chatham to honor this great man whose heart and voice touched so many. Please join the family there for the service on August 12 at 11:00 AM. Light refreshments and visitation with the family will be held in the church gym following the Celebration service.
His beloved wife, his four children and their partners, his thirteen wonderful grandchildren (Emily, Jasmin, Erica, Samantha, Jade, Jay, Gracie, Sasha, Jack, Katie, Joey, Ezra, Sawyer and Wesley - the new baby arriving next month to continue the circle of life), his siblings Linda (David), Vaughn (Sherry), Sharon (Carmen), many other extended family members and an untold number of friends will miss his presence in their lives on this earth. But heaven awaits!
If desired, memorial contributions to Loads of Love or Chatham-Kent Hospice would be appreciated as your expression of love.
