You are now on Legacy.com. Your site use is governed by their Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Any purchases are with Legacy.com. Learn More

Search by Name

Search by Name

CHARLES RANDOLPH KEPLE

CHARLES RANDOLPH KEPLE obituary

CHARLES KEPLE Obituary

Charles Randolph Keple, age 83, was taken suddenly in an unexpected death on August 8, 2025, in his hometown of Regina. He was born on April 20, 1942, to John and E. Freda Keple. Charles attended Luther High School, Royal Roads, and the Royal Military College of Kingston, Staff College in Shrivenham England, as well as the National Defence College in Kingston. He married Gayle Amy Elizabeth Keple (Weaver) on August 6, 1965. They have two children - Lee Keple (Katie King), of Vancouver, and Suzanne Keple (Graham Crate), of Ottawa. Charles served 38 years in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) as a military engineer officer in a career which saw him posted across Canada and the world (including Germany, the Netherlands, England, and Belgium). He was the Director of General Military Engineering Operations Canada (DGMEO), and for his last post, Colonel Keple returned to NATO as SECOS in SHAPE (Belgium) with NATO. Over the course of his career, Colonel Keple established the Canadian Military Engineers Association, mentored many engineers, and advocated for women and engineers in the CAF. Following his retirement, Charles actively volunteered with many charities, and was recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II's Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals, the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers, and the Order of Saskatchewan. He was very proud of his longstanding support of the Rotary Club, where he was known as someone devoted to the service of others and as a thoughtful, kind, and gentle leader. He remained true to his values and character, and always had a great concern for nature and the well-being of humanity. He enjoyed fitness and was a YMCA instructor for over 20 years. He enjoyed traveling the world with Gayle, and cheering for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Anyone who knew Charles can also attest to his enduring sense of humour, compassion, warm smile, and impish twinkles in his eyes. Charles is survived by his wife, Gayle; their children, Lee and Suzanne, and their partners; and his extended family through marriage, Karen, Tillie, Ian, and Liz; and great-grandchildren, Margaret and Jocelyn. Charles, were he to write his own story, would insist his greatest pride and memories were provided by his family. Gayle, Lee, and Suzanne were ever present in his heart and mind. He celebrated their every achievement and pledged his life to their protection. All three knew this love and felt the same way about him. His children and wife were by his side at the end, as he continued on his journey. He lived his values to the very end and was always stoic and brave, carrying the extra burden he faced living with Parkinsons. He will long be remembered for his strength, wisdom, warmth, heart, and good nature. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Freda; and his older brother, Brian Keple. Charles wishes were that there be no funeral for him. Details on a Celebration of Life will be shared at a later date. Memorials or donations may be made to the Regina Rotary Club Community Fund, which can be given through CanadaHelps.org. Chimo, Charles.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Globe and Mail from Aug. 16 to Aug. 20, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for CHARLES KEPLE

Not sure what to say?





9 Entries

Single Memorial Tree

David & Connie Renshaw

Planted Trees

Renshaw David

Yesterday

Sad to learn of the passing of Charles. Our sincerest condolences to Gayle and family. I was a classmate of Charles at Royal Roads where I enjoyed his friendship, jovial nature and quick wit. We played water polo together. He was always ready to "lend a hand" and due more than his part. Going forward to RMC, he was a capable, self confident leader, holding several sword carrying positions throughout. We both trained and served in the RCME, where he became one of the more decorated members of our class. He was instrumental in the formation of the CMEA. We are thankful for his and Gayle's service

Bob Fischer

August 17, 2025

Like so many others, I first met Charles at RMC but I really got to know him during the year we spent together at the National Defence College in 1985/86. Over the years that followed, it became obvious that there was much more to Charles as evidenced by his obituary and the many testimonials. He was an officer and a gentleman in the true sense of the words. RIP Charles.

Gordon & Irene Diamond

August 17, 2025

We first met Charles and Gayle in Kingston on the National Defence College 1985-86.
As others have noted, his dry wit, engineering perspective and engaging personality,
made for lively discussions and debates as we travelled the world studying Canadian Security. We offer our sincere condolences to Gayle, Lee, Suzanne & families.

Ken Schamuhn

August 16, 2025

My memories of Charles go back to Royal Roads and summer training with the Engineers. I saw him as a seriously committed person and in for the long haul. He exuded self-confidence and competence. I would have been very comfortable serving under him (although I did not stay in the military).

Nigel Wenban-Smith

August 16, 2025

I had the privilege of knowing Charles during the brief period of our shared experiences during the year of our participation in the National Defence College. Highly intelligent and generous in every way, he affected a brisk no-nonsense approach to every problem and was a remarkable source of good advice. I shall always miss his company and the pleasure of Gayle's company too.

Dennis Reilley

August 16, 2025

Charles was a true friend. Also, an inciteful innovator who always had the big picture in mind. A great person who will be sorely missed.

Len Gibson 6247

August 16, 2025

Was with Charlie at Royal Roads and RMC 1960-64. Pleased to read of his well lived life, but sadly too soon ended.

Dennis Tretiak

August 16, 2025

I was a with Charles at Roads and RMC and knew him to be a good man. I went to Thompson school with Gayle.

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Memorial Events
for CHARLES KEPLE

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.