Palle Them Dandernel Kjar

September 22, 2020

August 1, 1929 - September 22, 2020

With great sadness we announce the passing of an exceptional man, Palle Kjar.

Known for his youthful sense of humor and adventurous spirit; Palle lived his life to the fullest. He embraced the world in all its diversity and willingly shared his wealth of knowledge and skills.

His career in oil exploration took him to 27 countries. From prairie, to mountain, the arctic, desert and jungle; he thrived in unique surroundings, developing meaningful friendships across all cultures. From his mischievous spirit and wide ranging travels came the stories, the humor and life lessons that enriched our lives and entertained us all.

Outdoorsman, photographer, storyteller, mentor, and most of all family man. He lived his life; true to himself, to his family, to his friends and all he encountered; with deep integrity and a generous heart. Palle had a profound impact on all who knew him; an exceptional mentor and instructor, he influenced many as a Scout Leader (Lake Bonavista Sea Scouts), Hunter Education Instructor (Alberta Hunter Education Instructors Association) and Photographer (Foothills Camera Club). Husband (Carla), father (Visti and Kaia), grandfather (Sam and Ixchel), uncle (Them, Sonja, Becky, Rick, Brad, Kjeld, Shelley, Randy), colleague, and friend; we bid you farewell as you embark on your next great adventure. You touched us deeply, taught us well and helped us take this world lightly in the darkest of times. Forever in our hearts, we thank you, we honor you, we raise a glass to you, because ……. “When in doubt, just pour.”

Due to COVID-19 precautions, a Celebration of Life for Palle is not planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you consider a donation in Palle’s memory to the Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area.

Messages of Condolence

He was a wonder human and brought joy to this earth. He was true to who he was and lived life with exuberance! His kindness to me will never be forgotten! He will be missed and the memories made while together will be cherished!

- Sonja

I’m so glad to have met and known Palle. The wonderful obituary is recognized and appreciated. It was always a special time to be with Palle and hear his stories. A very good man. Love to the family. Penny

- Penny Macmillan

What an amazing tribute, that just touches the surface, of the man, the husband, the father, the grandfather that he was. His memoirs would certainly be a best seller leaving everyone on the edge of their seats wanting more. In life we are lucky enough to have encounters, I know for the short time that I had the distinct pleasure of being around Palle that each time I left as a better person. I am truly honored and blessed that I had the pleasure of raising a few glasses with him. To Carla, Kaia, Visti, Gaelle, Ixchel, Sam cherish the memories, the experiences you shared with him and the life lessons he taught. It makes my heart swell. Cheers !!!!

- Ron Rooke

Palle was an amazing friend! The obituary is so very true as he was a kind and loving man with a heart of gold! He is now at peace and I am sure he will find happiness on the other side. My heart goes out to all of Palle's family as we let him go.

- Evelyn Keele

We lost a real character!!! He shared many wonderful stories with the 144th Sea Scouts and Ventures. He was a man of many skills and talents !!! He will be missed!!! Scouter Lorne Tim Haggarty Stephen Haggarty

- Scouter Lorne

Such a wonderful tribute to Palle - he would be impressed ! We will certainly raise a glass in memory of our best & long time friend.

- Barry & Bunny

Palle enhanced my work experience when we were together in remote locations in Colombia and Indonesia. A strict work ethic during the day and fun to be with in the evenings. He was a good friend. My glass is raised.

- Jeremy Thornton

I grew up across the street from Palle, Carla, Visti, and Kaia in Deer Run--they were the first people I ever knew. For me at a young age (even now), Palle was the embodiment of Indiana Jones, and running around their house with Kaia and Visti, exploring from the top floor to the basement, was nothing short of magical. There were giant ostrich eggs, huge spiders hanging from lamps, stuffed Big Horn Sheep heads, and a range of black and white photos that looked like they have been stolen from a natural history museum. Palle was that kind of person, perhaps they even had in one of his earlier adventures! He was truly an original, and his stories and adventures could fill a young child's mind with all manner of possibility, lifting them with an encouragement that the world could take you anywhere you wanted. Even now they still do. I will miss those stories, that laughter, his sense of adventure, his Indiana Jones style hat, and know that wherever my experiences take me I will crack a smile when I find myself in a remarkable setting or questionable circumstance, as I know Palle wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

- Graydon Falls

I am so fortunate to have met Palle. Palle shared his outlook on life though his stories, photography and generous charitable nature. Thank you Palle. My glass is raised.

- David Dearborn

Palle was a valued colleague at Asamera and a special friend. He was a man of integrity, curiosity and adventure. I will never forget the weeks he spent in the jungles of Indonesia, setting seismic programs, and his single-handed set up of a mining camp in Northern Saskatchewan during the dead of winter. Whatever Palle was asked to do, he did a first class job and he did it with enthusiasm. Serious when working, but a barrel of fun when not, he was always a joy to be around. I always felt that when God made Palle, he threw away the mold. It was such a privilege to have known him. I extend my sincere condolences to Carla and the family.

- Bob Welty

Working with Palle in the jungles of Indonesia in the 70s was an adventure of its own! A person who would just light up the room as soon as he walked in. We reconnected in the 80s and had stayed in touch ever since. I will miss our drives to the mountains, scouting for photographic opportunities of the wild life, the 90 year old driver(Palle) with the 80 year old passenger(me)”... May he rest in the Love and Light of the Creator.... Palle will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with Carla, Visti, Kaia, Sam and Ixchel.

- Bob Bird

Well,he sure is a Dane that's for true. He will as always be that wonderful wonderful, Man we all knew. Your foot print has always been a blue print for any life journey. Thank's for clearing a pathway maybe we'll all catch up one day. Here's to your knew path SKOLL. P.S. many thanks for the hat back in 68. I still have it. and the secret Palle hand shake.has never let me down ......LOVE Brad.

- Bradley Kjar

I'm very sad to hear the passing of Palle Kjar. I have known him way back when his daughter Kaia was my mentor. Palle took me on my first camping trip at Catarac Creek, AB. Ever since I have been camping like crazy. Also, Palle and his wife Carla took me to a horse race in Spruce Meadows. Palle wanted me to try out on riding one of the horses so that he could take some photos of me riding it. Unfortunately, it was not safe because I was too short. He had to take me to ride a pony. So I rode a pony and he took so many pictures of me riding a pony just like a little kid. I was thrilled to ride a pony. It was just like a kid in a candy store. He always had his camera with him. I'm gonna miss you dearly. Everything tekdebooo

- Chantal Nzeyimana

I am so sorry to learn of Palle’s passing. I met him many years ago in the early 70s in Penang, Malaysia when he visited the island and he was excellent company, kind and had a great sense of humour! Rest In Peace and condolences to the family

- Michelle Clancy

I was thinking of Palle and family one day while I was out fly fishing with our son Jason and his sons Alexander and Duncan. We were neighbours and friends and the Kjars lifestyle was so inspirational. Kaija and Visti and Carla are always remembered as special acquaintances….Jenny and Bruce June 2023

- Jennifer Jewett

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