Monty Jay Audenart
January 21st, 2015
If you are reading this now, I have simply gone HOME. Come and help celebrate my life here on January 27, at 12pm at 8 Keast Way, Red Deer (LDS chapel).
Of course there will be food (I asked for KFC but probably won't get it), some good memories, and my family really needs your support. I was born on November 14, 1949 and returned HOME January 21, 2015. I was lucky to be adopted by Osh and Gladys Audenart and raised on a farm near Raymond, with my two great sisters Connie and Beverly. I attended school in Raymond and Magrath, and then served a mission for the LDS Church in Tahiti. I attended the University of Alberta where I graduated from dentistry in 1977. I practiced in Vermilion and Red Deer, and Nunavut, and offered my services to less fortunate people in Jamaica, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Thailand, Mexico, Russia and the Amazon. Sometimes my daughters came with me. It was a grand adventure. It never ever seemed like work. I served in the Church as a Branch President, a Councillor in the Bishopric, member of High Council, Stake executive secretary and Stake Director of Public Affairs.
I joined Rotary in 1987, and served as Club President, District Governor, Rotary International Director and Vice-President, and a Trustee of the Rotary Foundation, and lots of inbetweens. Rotary gave Liz and I , friends worldwide, and so many opportunities to serve the community and beyond. Rotary changes lives, including my own. I never seemed to be able to repay Rotary for all it gave me. I leave for awhile my eternal friend and wife of more than 40 years, Liz; my children Maurita and Scott Tollestrup, Jay and Amica (Antonelli) Audenart, Graham and Talia Audenart, Robin and Dave Kearl, Lisa and Sean Freeman, and Ryan and Jody Audenart; my sisters Connie (Andy) Blasetti and Bev (John) Mehew. Grieve abit, laugh a lot and keep a special place for me in your hearts. Remember always how God gave us Time enough to say goodbye. I will be a forever Grandpa to Mya, Kedan,Tagg, Payton, Berkeley,Osh, Gabby, Jack, Forrest, Aviana,Grayson, KK, Elle, Maeve, Willow, Crew, Aurelia, Mirra, Noa, and Cooper. Didn't we have FUN! I've gone ahead to another playground and I will be waiting for you all there with all kinds of stories. Remember we are an eternal family.
Some of you may think I left a bit early, but Mom always said it is more important how you serve in the time you have, than the years or the titles. I tried to be a good husband, father and grandfather. And I got plenty of fishing done in Corpus Christi and I released lots of fish for all of you. Catch a few Jay, I won't be far away.
In lieu of flowers you may donate directly to The Rotary Foundation. Their money never dies! (www.rotary.org).
See you soon, but don't rush!
Monty
Messages:
So sorry to hear of Montys passing. He was always so thoughtful, generous and caring. How we wish we would have expressed this personally to Monty while we were in vermilion. Often thought of the family. love, Claude and Sandy
Liz and Family and Rotarians of Red Deer, It is hurting to loose Monty at this time when he is most wanted. I did not know him personally but during my visit in Canada in 2012 I had fellowship with Rotarians of Red Deer and I was very happy with them. Now time has come for him to go!! Liz and family I know what it means to loose your dear husband, father and grand father but accept God's plans. Accept that though far away, we are with you, you will always find love and compassion in God's Love. Trust Him. May Monty rest in internal peace. Joseph Mutajjululwa Rotary Club of Kyotera - Uganda
Dear Liz and Family, We are so sorry to hear of Monty's passing. We met you both at our District Conference in 2008 in Frankston when Monty was the RIPPR. We were inspired by you both. Monty was a great person and a super Rotarian. We feel his loss even from this distance.
Dear Liz and Family. With a heavy heart we join others to offer you our condolences with the loss of your Life's Partner, Father and Grandfather. As Monty said in his final remarks to us all we must share the good memories he leaves and laugh and celebrate His Life. But we can not forget what he has meant as a husband, a father, a grandfather, a friend and an example to us all. We wish you strength and good memories. Jeff and Willy den Biesen
Dear Liz and Family, I offer my sincere condolences. I had no idea about this and I am very saddened to hear of Monte's passing. As TRF Canada Coordinator I had the pleasure of meeting Monty on many occasions, board meetings and conventions and he always had a big smile on his face to go with his vibrant, positive and helpful outlook. Monte was the epitome of 'doing good in the world' and I will miss him, his kindness and his generosity.
Liz and family: Our thoughts are with you all at this very sad time. Monty's inspirational ways have touched hearts and lives around the world. Indeed, Monty has gone "Home" far too soon. Chuck and Nancy Masur.
Liz and family - my thoughts are certainly with you during this time and I also wanted to thank you for your strength and passion during Monty's ceremony this week. Your son did an amzing job with the eulogy and the love for your relationship as a family and for Monty is very evident. As you are well aware, Monty touched a lot of lives and during the few conversations I have had with Monty, I can truly say that he changed me and he has a certain passion for life that is over-powering. What a wonderful man and person. Your love is ever lasting and all of us Rotarians are here for you. Sincerely, Marc.
Sister Audenart, I don't know if you remember me. I am Doug and MarJean Zollinger's daughter. Brother Audenart was my seminary teacher. I come upon his obituary from Ryan Handley on facebook. I just wanted to let you know how much I loved your husband as my seminary teacher. And I am not just saying this. I remember how powerful his lessons were, and what a kind, nice man he was. I won't forget all the snacks he had to bring to bribe us youth to stay awake. And I won't forgot how at the end of the year, if we graduated he rented a limo and took us to a fancy dinner at a Chinese restaurant. That was my first and only limo ride, and I thought I was royalty!! I will never forget your husband. My condolences go out to you and the rest of the family at this time. I lost my father a year and a half ago, so I know the pain you are all feeling. Thank goodness they are not gone forever. You miss them terribly some days and you can't wait to see them again. With love. God bless you guys. Karee Zollinger Hatch
For all this blessed family,I offer all the best fellings and the best energy there are in my heart. God bless you and bring comfort and serenity for your souls in this delicate moment. Unfortunatly I did not have the pleasure and honor to meet this maginificant soul in this life. But I am sure we will have time enough for this, because, after all, we have eternity. God is the greatest father and would a good father do something bad for his beloved children? God is as a treveler who, before leaving one village to go to another, have trusted you part of his treasure. And now, he asked for it back. Maybe it seems to early to return this son to the Father. But we can not forget He is Perfect, so it is just the right time. Now, He needs this good son in another place, helping different people in different activities. Now, he is back to the real Life, and certainly, where he is, he is looking you with joy and happiness.
Liz, We were very sad to hear of Monty's return home. We have many great memories of your family in Red Deer. Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Much love, The Nobles
Liz I just read about Monty's passing. Always loved that guy-- soo friendly, kind, gentle. Life has it's "surprises" and sometimes we just don't like them. I lost Doug 17 months ago. My heart aches for you, you will be in my prayers!!! Love MarJean Zollinger
Our condolences to you Liz and your family! Monty was one of the first inspirations for our Olds Rotary Club! He was so encouraging! He was always interested in what our Olds Club was up to when our paths crossed! I feel so blessed having known Monty. If one could only accomplish half of what he did with his time on earth. Blessings
Chère Liz et famille, Nous sommes attristés par le décès de Monty, un ami et un confrère de classe 2000-2001. Nous garderons de lui le souvenir d'un homme aimable, serviable et dévoué à sa famille et au Rotary. Nos plus sincères condoléances, Jean-Hugues et Marie-Andrée Laflamme
Liz and family, I was shocked and saddened to learn of Monty's passing today. In the short visits I had with him each year it was easy to tell what a special man he is. I always enjoyed hearing about his latest travels and adventures. He was truly a blessing to anyone that was fortunate enough to know him. Liz, you are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you all.
Dear Liz and Family, We sincerely offer our condolences to you and your family. It was a privilege to know Monty. He was such a positive man always doing his best to lift people up. He was so generous both with his means and his time. He truly made the world a better place. We have such good happy memories of him and his family. I am sure that the Holy Ghost will be with you at this times to bless and comfort you. We are sorry that we are not home at this time and will not be home to attend the funeral. Our thoughts and prayers are with you . Love, Narda and Larry
Liz and family. We were saddened to hear the news of Monty's passing and extend to you our condolences and deepest sympathy. We're so sorry for your loss. Ironically, we received the news last week in San Diego at the International Assembly. The last time I was there was as a Training Leader and as a member of Monty's Eh! Team. This year we were back as one of the two Seminar Trainers. Monty's coaching, guidance, advice, and counsel were in large part responsible for being asked to fill that assignment. Light and energy your way in the days and weeks to come. One journey ends and another begins. Rest in Peace Monty.
Dear Liz and Family: We were so sorry to hear of Monty's passing. Monty was an exceptional Rotarian well loved by all and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
My thoughts and prayers are with you today. I lost my father Grant Miller to cancer Jan 31, 2014. It was very hard leading up to his death and harder after.I lost my Grandmother to cancer 6 month after my Dad. (His mother, Joyce Miller.) A year after his death I can say I have never been happier. My Dad is leading our family to greener pastures in tandem with the Savior from beyond the veil, beautifully and unmistakably. I feel his spirit comforting me and encouraging me often. Every once In a while I still run into acquaintances of my Dad's who haven't heard he died and they ask how he is doing. I always say "He's doing awesome!" People say they are sorry when they learn of his passing but I tell them how much of a blessing it is to have a bearer of the priesthood blessing you from the other side. I am celebrating Monty's life with you ( like his kindness the time he fixed Dj's tooth when I punched it out;) and sending my love and prayers to comfort you at this time of his graduation. Love Janet Sinclair
We were saddened to learn the news about Monty's passing. He was a well respected man and good friend to many around the world. He was a wonderful husband, father & grandfather, a loved and trusted friend, a great senior Rotary leader and mentor to several Rotary leaders, including myself. I had just recently communicated with him and was surprised that this news came so soon. RIP Monty. You have lived a fulfilling life and made a difference in the lives of many. While we cannot be at his memorial service in person, we will most certainly be there in spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Liz and your entire Audenart family.
Liz, and family, my heart goes out to you as I read about the passing of your beloved husband, father and grandpa. I remember Monty's handsome face, always with that beautiful smile and quick sense of humor. He was so kind to my young (and very large) growing family and was always ready to serve, solve a problem, or have an adventure. His obituary was brilliant and it made me feel like he was sitting right there, smiling and saying, "so long till we meet again." God bless you in the coming days with sweet sweet memories and strength to endure this heart wrenching loss.
Liz and family, I was so sorry to hear of Monty's passing. You have lost such a wonderful man. He has left the world a better place than when he found it. He will be receiving heavenly hugs for his kind and generous service. I was blessed to have known him, even though we lived in Red Deer for just 3 years. (by the way, dentists still compliment me on the amazingly well-done bridge that he 'gave' me about 26 years ago!) I wish I were closer, I would love to come to the service and give everyone a hug! Thinking of all of you, Gloria
Dear Liz and families, Was visiting with Joanne and she showed me the Lethbridge paper with Monty's original memorial. So touching. While in The Rimbey Branch for so many years it was always a special time when we would see you at various functions. Do you remember coming out to our house in Bluffton with the Stake Relief Society? Monty had come back to Raymond at their Annual Rotary Ball only a few years back and it was so memorable to have a visit with him once again. Red Deer and Raymond and all those places between his dash have been enhanced by Audenart presence. God Bless you all, Thoughts and Prayers. Mary Ann, Raymond AB. as well as former members of the Rimbey Branch
We are so sorry to learn of Monty's passing. I remember him more. As my cousin growing up on the farm and all the fun we had. May God bless you and your family. He did a lot of good in the places he went and will be missed. I'm glad I got to talk to him a couple of yrs ago.
Liz & Family ,, I was as we all are saddened to hear of your husband, Dad & Grandpa's passing .. We attended Dental School together & went through all the trials & tribulations associated with that !! Monty's upbeat & caring attitude always shone through in all his endeavors & I was privileged to call him not just a professional associate but a friend !! Liz, I'm down in Palm Springs now so will be unable to attend his service but know I will be there in thought & prayer ,,, Bill Hollingshead ,,,
To Connie , Bev and Monte`s family when I heard of Monte going home, all I could think about was the good times we had on the farm, about growing up together on the Milk River Ridge, about Gladys and Osh and about how much fun we had together. Monte was a great cousin of mine and I truly loved him. my thoughts are with you.
Our recollection of Monty began when the Edmonton Millwoods Stake was organized and Vermilion became a part of that new Stake. Monty was Branch President in Vermilion. When I was shown the map of the Branch, I asked where the Audenarts lived. There was a small circle on the map near Lloydminster. That was the special boundary for the Branch designed to allow the Branch President to be in the Vermilion boundaries. And he was special. I will always remember him flying his plane to Edmonton to pick up the Stake Presidency and take them to Branch Conference and then he would fly us back home. Pretty clear that he loved to fly. Once he flew to Edmonton to pick up Karen and me and our children so that we could attend a Branch party. He was very generous in every way. We extend our best wishes to Liz and the children and grandchildren. He has only gone ahead and you and we will see him again in great happiness. May the Lord bless you in every way until that day when you are reunited as a family.
It is with profound sadness that I have learned that Monty "has gone HOME". My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May the strength of his character and the joy of his memories give you comfort and hope. You shared Monty with our community, locally and globally, for that we are grateful and our world is a better place...THANK YOU. We now stand with you sharing your grief and celebrating the life of this amazing man. I had the privilege of knowing Monty through a Rotary and my role at Red Deer College. He made a difference in my life, and for that I am grateful. I am not able to be at the service on Tuesday, but will be there in spirit to join the hundreds in attendance and the thousands who will remember Monty in special ways. Sincerely, Ron Woodward
We were living in Wainwright when your family arrived in Vermilion and Monty became my dentist. I broke a tooth one Saturday morning and gave him a call. He told me to come right in. It was a molar and he rebuilt the tooth in very short order, quickly and efficiently. I was very impressed, not to say how grateful I was for the service. I remember us having a Vermilion Branch garage sale a year or so after you arrived and Monty was giving away all kind of stuff to raise money for the Branch. Vermilion was an "interesting" Branch and you guys were one of the really good ones. I appreciated the short time that we knew you. I also understand where you are right now as my wife, Carol died just over three years ago. One of the real blessings that you will find is a very close relationship with the Holy Ghost as he comforts you in this time of great need. We are especially blessed this way. My condolences to you and your family at this time.
Very sad to see this, he was a great person and a good friend. My thoughts and prayer go out to his family at this time.
Kent and I will always have wonderful memories of Monty. Liz, I am sorry for your loss.
I'm so sorry to hear of Monty's passing. Please accept my condolences to your entire family. Monty and I went all the way through school together in Raymond until he decided to attend Magrath High School. He did leave too soon but accomplished great things while he was here. Take care Guy Sunada RHS Class of '68
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. God bless.
Monty was a man beloved by thousands, all of whom will miss him and mourn his passing. He lived a life of service and set the bar very high. And he left behind a multitude of people who are better for having known him.
our deepest condolences to Liz and family. Monty was truly one of a kind who through his deep passion for Rotary has inspired so many more to offer "service above self". I am so proud and honoured for the opportunity to have known you both! You have touched countless lives to make this world a better place for all!
To Liz and Monty's family: Aline and I were very sad to learn that Monty had finish is life on this earth. You will surely miss him a lot. He was a person for whom the family was important and you were his family. He had a second family that will miss him too. I wish the world would be full of human being like Monty. We then would live in a better world.I was Lucky to had the opportunity to work with him in Rotary. You will be in our thoughts and prayers, Respectfully, Aline & Paul Beaulieu
Love you Monty! Won't exactly be rushing to see you but save me a place!
What a beautiful goodbye. Talia sure spoke highly of her father in law and I know that he was a special grandpa to all his grandchildren. What a blessing that families are forever. You will all miss him but imagine the happy reunion you will have some day!
Monty what a fun loving guy. A real example. May God be with you and your Family.
Dear Liz and Family; May the Good Lord bless you and your family.Monty gave his life to assist the needy of the world and now God has taken him home .One day we will meet again when we reach our final destination . May God keep you all strong by staying together . I am Andy's brother heard lots about the family from Coni & Bev ,now i Know why he was so admired and looked up to . CIAO BLESS YOU, GUY BLASETTI
To Monty's family, I can truly "feel" the sweet familar spirit of Monty as I read this obit... THAT humour, combined with his faith and gentle way, decidedly encouraged me a long time ago to meet my challenges "head-on" with trust in a guiding POWER greater than the human mind can concieve... I am certain his HOME -coming has been joyful! Just wishing I could give a hug "goodbye my friend, I'll be seeing you..." In my thoughts and prayers tonight, sad unable to attend Tues. Love always, Ron (Sheri) Heller
Liz and Family I was saddened to hear the news of Monty's passing, but so pleased to read the obituary that appeared in today's Lethbridge Herald. How like him to celebrate the good times and make his faith and his family the central themse of his message to us. I was privileged to serve Monty as one of his Assistant Governors - I truly admired his contagiously positive attitude and his energy. My condolences to all of you Helen Henderson
We were deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Monty's passing. He was a wonderful man. He was generous, kind and always willing to help out. Our family loved him as a dentist. I enjoyed working with him in the Branch Presidency. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Liz and the family. Bob and Nadia Campbell
Mont was a wonderful friend and neighbor growing up on the farm.I can imagine how proud the family is to have such a wonderful person for a husband,father,grandpa and the thousands around the world that have been influenced,by him .The memories are cherished.My condolences to the family.Due to prior commitement I can not attend,my thoughts are with the family. Chris Costley.
My deepest condolences to the family. Another angle in Heaven
Good man will miss him! I have know Monty from the days in the 3 ward in Raymond and off and on till his passing.I remember when he flew my boys and I from Red Deer over our Ranch at Raven.And to you Liz I understand what it is like to loss a eternal companion, he will be with you every day till you meet again.
Although I can't be there on the 27th to help celebrate all the beauty that Monty brought in to the world my thoughts will be, and for many days afterward will be with Monty's family. My gosh, so many grandchildren! Yet Monty would have had more than enough love for all of them, as he had youthful energy for all those around him and his endeavours to make the world a better place. How often did people comment on his age, thinking he was much younger than his birthdate would suggest. I will always cherish the companionship and wisdom from Monty in the too few years that I was able to spend with him. The world has many wonderful people. Now heaven has one more.
Jay I opened the paper this morning and saw your Dads picture and obituary. I had no idea...I am so sorry! My Dad died Jan 31 last year of cancer, so I know somewhat how you may feel. I loved your Dads obituary and have now made it my goal to do the same thing. - to write my own. How are you doing? My email is: davidgrantmiller@gmail.com (I'm technically on Facebook but I really don't like it and I never check it) I would love to hear from you. All the Best, man, Dave
Monty was always a kind and gentle Rotary leader. He shared important people skills meaningfully to those who would listen. He made a difference in my service and a always remembered him as Monty. What an honor to have known him. May his family be comforted that he touched others in such a meaningful way.
Monty was my first Rotary contact when I moved to Red Deer. I had just lost my husband and was encouraged by a London neighbor to consider joining Rotary in Red Deer and after 13 yrs as a Rotarian, know, that it was the best thing for me. My heart goes out to you in the loss of a wonderful man and Rotarian. Jaqui Joys
I am very sorry to learn that Monty left us and I have read his obituary. He was my inspiration even though I met him once at Rotary Conference in South Africa. May his soul rest in peace. Musa --- Enclosed is a copy of the message. Dear Monty Greetings in the New Year. Hoping you and your family are well. It’s been ages since we communicated. I have always been inspired by the talk you gave in South Africa many years ago on your dental outreach projects. We started a Rotary dental Outreach Project in Swaziland and we have never looked back ever since. It started small and now it is expanding to become a bigger project getting sponsorship from local companies and dentists which we just do once a year. Attached is a report that from last year’s project we did with a team from USA. This year I’m organizing some friends from Canada to join hands with us in Swaziland. I’ll will send you some pictures on this project if I am able re establish contact again and maybe you may join us or assist the team. Regards Musa Rotary Club of Mbabane (Swaziland)