Wilfred (Willy) Albert Joseph Kemball

It is with profound sadness the family of Willy Kemball shares that he was taken from us suddenly on November 25, 2025, at the Pine Falls Hospital, with the “love of his life”, wife Linda by his side. Willy died doing something he loved, as volunteer firefighter of 40 years and long serving Fire Chief, he was attending a fire practice with his crew when he began to feel unwell and quietly drove himself to the hospital. He will forever be in the loving arms of his family and dog Precious. Willy was predeceased by his loving mother Pearl; father Albert; brother Dennis; and baby sister Elma. He will be deeply missed by Linda his wife of 53 years and his three children, daughter Denise (Garry); son Sean (Kristen); son Ian; brothers David (Dolores), Arvid, sister Wilma (Phillip); sister Denise; grandchildren Owen, Sarah, Olivia, Avary, Krista, Aubree, Allison, Jenn, Stephanie, Kira; along with his many in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.

Willy worked at the Pine Falls Paper Company for 40 years in many capacities but truly enjoyed his time with the Yard Crew and all those associated with his Townsite and safety/fire protections roles. Anyone who worked alongside Willy would share the pride he took in leading by example, working hard and incorporating some fun and laughter into the workplace.

Willy was a passionate athlete who enjoyed most sports, but hockey, baseball, and golf were his favorites. In his younger years, he played outfield for the Pine Falls Canadians and could run like a deer and was an all-star batter. On the ice he earned the nickname “rooster” as he was notorious for playing with some edge when he got mad. He proudly played for the Pine Falls Paper Kings, the Ol’ Kings, coached numerous teams, officiated thousands of games, and helped his grandchildren learn to skate and cheered them on at all their games for decades.

Willy was a dedicated community leader and volunteer. At the time of his death he was serving his second term of office has a Councillor for the Town of Powerview-Pine Falls. (Chief) Willy served his local communities through his four decades of service to the Powerview-Pine Falls/RM of Alexander Fire Department. The fire department stated, “His leadership strengthened our fire department, and his kindness touched every person who had the privilege of knowing him”. We will all miss him and strive to follow his example.

A service is planned for Monday, December 8 at 11:00 a.m. at the Great Falls Community Hall. A private family burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Manitoba Firefighters’ Burn Fund http://www.burnfundmb.ca/donations/

Our sincerest thanks to all the staff at the Pine Falls Hospital who did everything possible to save Willy and support the family.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com