Calvin L. Kemp

Calvin (Cal) LeRoy Kemp was born in Alpena, MI on August 28, 1959, to James Rozzell Kemp and Fern Bernice Kemp (Walker) as their sixth child. He passed unexpectedly, yet peacefully at home on Sunday October 26, 2025. As an unwavering servant of the Lord, Calvin led a life steeped in faith as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

After meeting and pursuing the future love of his life at Alpena Christian Camp, Calvin married Melody Bedtelyon on August 24, 1979, and enjoyed 46 years with the wife he deeply cherished and adored. During his marriage to the woman of his dreams, they had three children: Levi (Amanda) Kemp, Harmony (Aaron) Gray, and Brock (Heidi) Kemp. They blessed him with nine grandchildren who loved him wholeheartedly. His love for God, his treasured wife and family, integrity, and hard work were the hallmark of this man that happily lived within the Grace of God.

From an early age, Calvin showed the strong work ethic that would define his life. His very first job was at his father’s car wash where he learned the value of hard work and responsibility. Over the years he developed a remarkable talent for building and woodworking - skills that reflected both his creativity and determination. With courage and dedication, he went on to start his own business; a dream he turned into a reality through countless hours of effort and a strong wife by his side. One of his greatest joys was having both of his sons work alongside him at different times, passing on his knowledge and love for the trade. As a man of strong faith, he tithed not only with his wallet but with his hands, knowledge, and time.

Calvin thrived on a quick wit and playful humor. Horsing around with his grandkids was a favorite pastime and he considered them to be his greatest blessings. He treasured his time with his church, family, and friends, Calvin leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, integrity and conviction. He loved his family and friends deeply and his greatest desire is that all who crossed his path would come to know his Lord and Savior.

Services for Calvin will be held at the Gaylord E-Free Church on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, with an 11:00 AM service and luncheon to follow. Please join us in remembering Cal’s hatred towards suits and dress clothes of any kind. Jeans and casual wear will be the preferred attire per Calvin’s final wishes.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on the guestbook below.