KRIS KASTER
A kind and hilarious man of faith in the Lord Jesus, Kris was loved by many. He passed away peacefully with family at his side, at the West Parry Sound Health Centre on Sunday, June 4th, 2023. Age 42 years.
Beloved husband of Lauren Kaster (Connelly) for 18 years. Loving father of Hannah, Kohl, Bridget and Paige. Cherished son of Richard and Anne Kaster, and dear son in law of Barbara Connelly. Adored big brother of Jennifer Jolly and her husband Kevin and brother-in-law of Dan Connelly and his wife Sara. Dear uncle of Keegan and Jackson Jolly; and Wyatt and Libby Connelly. Precious grandson of Theresa Dietrich-Ladd and the late Richard Dietrich; and the late Leonard and Ruth Kaster. Forever remembered by his many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Kris had a passion for family, friends and God. He had a love of camp ministry, spending time in nature, and a flair for always making people laugh. He could win any board game, had to climb anything and everything, and had an amazing memory for all things mechanical or with engines. Kris thrived on a job well-done, a river to paddle and having his children by his side. He had many talents and was always willing to use them to help others. He never passed up an opportunity to play catch, turn his tunes up loud, or blaze a trail through the forest or through snow. Kris loved his children more than he thought possible and was so proud of them. The kids will cherish their memories of their many outdoor adventures, bedtime snuggles, and epic rumbles together.
Despite his life being far shorter than we would have liked, he accomplished so much for the Kingdom of God, specifically in his 20 years of camp ministry working directly with hundreds of children and later creating beautiful, safe spaces for people to gather and get to know God. His impact was immeasurable and his legacy will live on.
We are grateful to the many friends and community members who have supported us during this tremendous loss.
Kris has planned a casual celebration of life which will take place at the McKellar Community Centre, 701 Highway 124, McKellar, on Friday June 16th, 2023, with a service and time to share memories at 3:00 P.M. A barbeque with the menu by Kris will follow at 4:00 P.M. Please bring your baseball gear and join in some baseball at 5:00 P.M.!
There is a playground and lake access for canoeing at the McKellar fairgrounds. Hotels, B & B’s and campgrounds are available in the Parry Sound area.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to assist the family would be appreciated (e-transfer [email protected])
Condolences
Dear Lauren and family, How blessed that you and Kris had 18 incredible years together and you created four beautiful children Hannah, Kohl, Bridget and Paige. Kris is now in God’s loving embrace and will be able to watch over and protect his family from his place in heaven. Lauren - May your many beautiful family memories help to sustain you and keep you strong always. You and your family all remain in our hearts and prayers always. God Bless You All. ❤️🙏🏽
-Leigh and Barry VincentI hope the memories of Kris comfort you all in this difficult time. He will never be forgotten. ❤️
-Peter KlineMy heartfelt condolences to the Kaster family. Kris was an amazing person and had a positive impact on anyone he met. He will be missed. My love & prayers are with you. Gail
-Gail McKowenThe last time I saw Kris was years ago, at my wedding. A million people come to say hi at a wedding, but Lauren and Kris stood out to me because there was something so different about him in that moment. In my years of camp with Kris, he was always a great support - hilarious and constant in a crazy world...but he was also (to me) someone who shied away from strong emotions and tried to make light of them in himself. At my wedding, Lauren and Kris slowly made their way up to me, with little toddler Hannah between them, walking up to introduce her. And through that entire, slow, toddler-paced journey, Kris was just beaming. For a guy who normally tried to shove aside any strong feelings, he was full on in them. You could just see how incredibly proud of her he was - just so delighted to get to introduce her...Like life could not get more wonderful than holding that little hand.
-Amy HehenkampAnne, a sad sad time for you and your family. My thoughts are with you all. What a beautiful and loving written tribute to your son.
Ruth
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Kris. We send our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Lauren you do not know us but we have fond memories of Richard, Anne, Kris and Jennifer from when they lived in Ayr. Our son Adam who was the same age as Kris and Dan the same age as Jen were class mates at school and shared fun times at Sunday school and youth group at Knox United Church. Although we lost contact when they moved we thought of the "Kaster" family many times over the years and actually Dan and Jen reconnected on Facebook. Again please accept our deepest condolences. Sincerely Nick & Pauline Kocher and family
-Pauline & Nick KocherRichard, Anne and family, I am so sorry to hear of Kris's passing. Sending prayers to all during this difficult time. 🙏 May God's light shine upon.you.💗
-Sharon BoppreDear Rich and Ann and families,
Our hearts go out to you. We met Kris at Moose Lake on several occasions. May your memories of the times you had together help your healing hearts. We are thinking of you.
Love Jeanette and Trevor
God bless you Lauren and children....we love Camp Kahquah also....Never met you but my heart is with u ...can not stop praying for you....
Debbie
The Kaster Family
We are so sorry to hear of Kris' passing.
Our hearts go out to you all at this sad time. He was a wonderful man.
Karen and Greg
Deepest thoughts and sympathies to Richard and Anne and Families at this time of sorrow.
-Paul and Karen PenfoldWhen someone touches your heart, the imprint lasts forever. Kris will be missed but the legacy will remain. Find comfort in memories and embrace the love around you.
-Shelley and Stu WilesWe are so sorry to hear of your loss. Kris sounds like an amazing young man. I wish I had had the chance to meet him. Sending love and comfort from your extended family in Virginia.
-Janine Bomberger SnaderAnne and Richard
May the lord be your strength while you weep and Mary hold you in her arms,Your Son is at peace. May you both take comfort in knowing you raised an
Amazing young man who’s journey in this life is over but he is needed for bigger things in Gods kingdom. My heartfelt condolences to the whole Kaster family while they celebrate Kris’ life. He never walks far from you, listen for him in the wind!
Much love always auntie C
Dear family of Kris Kaster.
We are very saddened to hear of Kris' passing. We knew him from Camp Kahquah and are very grateful for his service there. You have been and continue to be in our prayers. Well done Kris thy good and faithful servant!
Don and Bonnie Lofthouse
Dear Lauren and family, We grieve with you during this time of great loss. We want to extend our sincere condolences and will be lifting you up in prayer.
-Lacy, Mike, Zoey, & Ember CameronWe met Kris a few times at camp. He was always working with a smile on his face. Praying for peace and comfort for his family during this very difficult time. Camp Kahquah was certainly blessed to have Kris during his time serving.
-Micheal and Deborah Brownlee