Delmar Rempel

Delmar is survived by his children, Denise (Dave) Fowler and Sterling (Tracy) Rempel; Grandchildren Michael (Richelle Zimmer) Fowler, Christopher (Nicole Lane) Fowler, Adam (Natasha) Rempel, Luke Rempel, Katie Rempel, Lizzie Wharton; Great-grandchildren Sophie, Madelyn, Emma and Oliver Rempel; Brother, Alvin Rempel; Special Friend, June Young; Sister-in-laws Hilda Patkau, Mary Patkau; Brother in-law Erwin Patkau (Helen), together with many nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by his wife Alice (Patkau) Rempel in 1993 and son, Shayn, in 1988. Suffering the loss of their son had a profound and lasting impact on Delmar and Alice.

Also predeceased by Brothers-in-law and Sisters-in-law Norma Rempel, Tina and Nick Harder, Esther Patkau, Frieda and Henry Peters, Henry Patkau and Corny Patkau.

Delmar Clarence Rempel was born on March 15th, 1933, in Rosthern, Saskatchewan, the eldest son of George J. Rempel and Tena Rempel (Unger). He met Alice Patkau at Rosthern Bible School and married in 1956, until her passing 37 years later. Delmar and Alice were charter members of Nutana Park Mennonite Church, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary on April 4th, 2025.

Growing up in a faith-driven family, he developed values that guided him throughout his life, inspiring countless individuals around the world. From a young age, Delmar’s talents and leadership abilities were evident. By the age of sixteen, he was already teaching Sunday School and delivering sermons at Rosthern Mennonite Church. His remarkable dedication to service was evident throughout his life, exemplified by his work as chairman of seven committees within his church and school, and throughout his professional career.

Delmar’s professional life was a journey marked by excellence, innovation, and passion. He began in hospital and ambulance training before exploring roles as a watchmaker, furniture department manager, and co-owner of A-D Motors with his brother, Alvin, where they sold cars and farm equipment, provided autobody, towing, and ambulance services.

Yet, his true passion was photography. As the founder of Delmar Studios and the DelMar Gallery, he made an indelible impact on the world of photography. As a professional photographer, Delmar captured the essence of countless weddings, families, babies, and commercial subjects. He served as the President of the Saskatchewan Professional Photographers Association and was honored with a Fellowship in 1977. He also served as President of the Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC) and was awarded an Honorary Life Membership and the 1985 National Citation for Service—the highest awards from PPOC. He earned five Masters, Service and Craftsman awards, and American Craftsman Degree in 1978. In 1979, he received the prestigious National Award from Professional Photographers of America, the highest honor given.

Delmar’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to own a modeling agency and a ladies’ custom-designed clothing store. An inventor, he held patents in both Canada and the US for a mat-cutting machine in custom picture framing. He taught photography, picture framing, mat cutting, and salesmanship throughout North America.

His commitment to service extended far beyond business. Delmar was a volunteer at Columbia Bible College, a documentary videographer, a board member for MEDA International and the Canadian Coast Guard, and the founder of Haiti Papermakers International, a handmade paper business that provided sustainable employment, vocational training, and educational support. Over the years, his efforts enabled 2,600 children to attend school, offering hope and a brighter future. His passion for sharing skills and empowering others led him to Egypt, where he inspired individuals through photography. In Uganda, he documented stories of faith and resilience, producing documentaries that illuminated the strength of belief in overcoming adversity.

His second home was the family cabin at Emma Lake where he spent many hours puttering around, driving his boat for those wanting to water-ski and just relaxing with family and friends and worshiping God in nature.

There will be no memorial service at Delmar’s request. A private family service will be held later in the spring, when Delmar’s ashes will be interred alongside his late wife, Alice, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Saskatoon, SK.

Donations in Delmar’s memory may be made to those organizations close to his heart: Mennonite Economic Development Associates, Rosthern Junior College, Columbia Bible College and Nutana Park Mennonite Church.