Gregory Joseph Kempf

  Gregory J. Kempf, 73, passed away on April 8, 2014 in his home in Sebeka after a long fight with cancer. Greg was born in Wadena June 24, 1940. His parents were Frank Kempf and Agatha (Kern) Kempf. Greg and his brother Ambrose grew up on the family dairy farm near Bluegrass. They attended Mass at St. Hubert's Catholic Church in Bluegrass. Greg graduated high school in Wadena.  In 1962, Greg married Myrna Steinkraus. They had four children Vincent, James, Shannon, and Michael. Michael passed away as an infant in 1978. Greg and Myrna moved to Sebeka after his eight years in the Navy and his graduation from the University of North Dakota. Greg and Myrna raised their children in Sebeka. They were active in the Assumption of Our Lady Parish in Menahga. Greg served as lector and Myrna was known for her singing. Later in life they joined St. Ann's Catholic Church where Myrna's funeral was held in 2010. Family was very important to Greg. He included his family in his pursuits. Early in his life, Greg was a Golden Gloves boxer. Vincent and James would accompany Greg to Golden Gloves bouts where Greg served as a judge. He shared his knowledge with James when he was in Golden Gloves. Greg would spar with his sons in the backyard. Sometimes this resulted in fat lips or bloody noses, but there were always smiles on everyone's faces. Greg played baseball for the Leaf River and the North Germany baseball teams. He was able to play on a ball club with his father. Eventually Greg was also able to do the same with his sons as he managed and played for the Red Eye Country Boys. Greg loved hunting and fishing. For him it was a family event. He spent many hours afield with his children and grandchildren.  Greg was the Wadena County Zoning Administrator for 29 years. He had many job titles while he worked at the county to include Weed Inspector. Greg volunteered his time generously. He was a member of the American Legion. He taught Hunter Safety classes for 40 years. He worked hard to get the indoor shooting range for the Knob Hill Sportsman's Club. Greg began target shooting in the Navy and continued competing his entire life. Greg's home away from home was the Knob Hill Sportsman's Club. There he gained many lifelong friendships. No one enjoyed retirement more than Greg. He was free to spend more time with his family and friends. Greg enjoyed dancing and was known for the Polka. He passed the dancing gene on to his granddaughter Micaela. Apparently the Polka gene is recessive. He said dancing was great exercise. He attended many area dances and met many good friends along the way. Greg is survived by: his brother Ambrose Kempf of Wadena; sons Vince (Janet) Kempf of Barnesville and Jim Kempf of Owatonna; daughter Shannon Kempf of Sebeka; and grandchildren Ryan Kempf, Micaela Kempf, and Rachal Cross. Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Monday, April 14, 2014 at Wevley Funeral Home in Sebeka, MN, with prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Wadena, MN with Farther Aaron Kuhn as Celebrant. Active Casketbearers include Greg Oldakowski, Darrell Haman, Mark Schmitt, Marcus Harris, Vern Heltemes and Andy Alt. Berg Nylund American Legion Post #456 of Sebeka will be Provided Military Honors. Interment will be at Sebeka West Cemetery.