PRIVP Monty Audenart passes away
Posted by Dr. Monty Audenart
on Feb 02, 2015
Rotary Foundation Trustee Dr Monty Audenart passed away on January 21, 2015 in Red Deer, Alberta. Monty was well known to the Rotarians in our District. He asked that the following e-mail be sent out following his death.
“My Dear Friends,
This is just a short message to let you know that I have simply "Gone Home". While the Spirit is strong, and I would have loved to stay longer, I have had to lay my body down and walk through the next door. But then, life is really all about how we live it, and less about how long we live. I am lucky to have lived a grand life in the time that I had. I have been blessed to have a wonderful family, and so many good friends like you.
Thank you for being a part of my life, and for the many experiences and fun times we shared and the lessons you taught me. I will surely miss you, but I have faith that in due time we shall meet again. Please pray for my family, and know that I am not too far away.
Monty”
He also wrote the obituary below.
“If you are reading this now, I have simply gone HOME.
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 in-betweens. 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 a while 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 a bit, 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”
The Rotary Foundation –Monty Audenart Endowed Fund is being established for donations. This is what Monty would have wanted. It will be up and running shortly, at which time if you wish, please donate. Watch the District website for further information from PDG Mike French on how to donate to this fund.