Obituary of Kevin Thomas Rea

In loving memory of Kevin Rea who passed away on May 19th, 2021 at the age of 52 years. Beloved husband of Candace Rea (nee Schroeder), brother of Kenneth Rea (Bar 3R) and of Sharon Erb (Kitscoty). Kevin Thomas Rea was born in Kindersley, Saskatchewan on October 16th, 1968, and lived his entire life in the Village of Marengo. Growing up, he spent time visiting neighbours and at local rinks watching his brothers play hockey or hanging out on the family farm. He learned a great deal from them, his Dad (Gordon), his Grandpa Rea and Uncle Bill. Upon graduating from Westcliffe Composite School, Kevin immediately went to work for the R.M. of Milton No. 292 - first as a summer student then seasonally as a grader operator. He was mentored there by Bob Carpenter and worked with many other great people over the years, including at the Cereal Livestock Auction and Grant Rennie’s Feedlot - where meeting the Queen was a highlight. Kevin’s true passion was always ranching as a partner in Bar 3R Limousine with his brothers, David and Kenny. He would often reminisce of travels to pick up cattle with family and roping or rodeo trips with his buddies. “Gump” loved staying in the bunk house during calving season, packing the silage pit or helping with harvesting and baling. Agribition, the Lloydminster Female Sale and preparing for the Annual Purebred Bull Sale (more than 25) was the highlight of his year – followed by his personal delivery to many customers’ farms. He also contributed to the community by serving as a 4H judge, Village councilor, Limousine Association executive, pasture co-op member and more. Later, Kevin changed employment to the R.M. of Antelope Park No. 322 and really enjoyed the work and the people there, ending his career as both the Safety Supervisor and Foreman. Following the passing of his father and brother, David; Kevin moved back in with his mother, Dorene (Dolly) Rea, to take care of each other. In 2015 as his own health began to challenge him, Kevin was forced to pull back from farm activities and gladly spent his time with a new passion – his late-found love, Candace. The two enjoyed many new experiences, including family vacations with her sons, Johnny and Gatlin Dueck. Kevin and Candace Rea were married in Marengo on December 2nd, 2018 in the presence of their parents and her youngest son, followed by a dream trip to Vegas with friends. They shared happiness and laughter together, through the good and the bad, everyday since and right up until Kevin’s passing in a Calgary hospital room on May 19th, 2021. He will be deeply missed by friends and relatives across Canada. A private family service will be held at a later date.