Carey Douglas Kiefuik passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the age of 68 years.
Carey was born in Lethbridge to his parents William and Pearl Kiefuik.
Carey had a deep love for his family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, as well as his mother and father-in-law Stan and Hazel Prysiazny, and brother-in-law Bob Prysiazny.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Cheryl; daughter Amy (Adam) Freeman; son Tyler; and precious grandsons Luca and Jackson Freeman. Carey is also survived by his brothers Brian (Gail), James, John (Karen), and Lorne, as well as his brother-in-laws Brian (Shelagh) Prysiazny and Dwayne (Laurel) Prysiazny, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Carey worked most of his career working at St. Michael’s Covenant Health and then moved on to Canadian Tire.
One of the things Carey looked forward to was the Christmas season, when he would be able to don his Santa Claus outfit while putting smiles on children’s faces as well as convalescing seniors. Once done the "gig,' and if it was the right time, he loved to go through the seasonal check stops to check on the police officers to make sure they’d make the good list.
Carey was a man who acted like he was rough and tough, but in reality, he was, as many friends stated, “a great big teddy bear.” He also thought he was a good handyman and that he excelled at fixing things, but we knew that when it was in regard to cars, his brother Jack was the one to call. If it was plumbing/electrical work, his buddy Ian was the one who was called to correct/fix what was done.
When Carey and Cheryl went for coffee or to a gathering, Carey was the life of the party. He also acted as an icebreaker when friends or family faced difficult times. He was always only a phone call away.
Carey had a big heart. It became even bigger when his precious grandsons were born. When Luca James was born, Carey had to keep bragging that he was the first one to hold him besides his mom and dad in the NICU. He still rubbed it in with Cheryl up to a couple of months before he passed. Then his and Cheryl’s hearts grew even bigger when Jackson Stanley joined the family. Carey’s face shone when he saw the boys and melted when he held them.
He greatly enjoyed the outdoors and going on fishing adventures with his brother Jack and nephew Russell. Carey was so excited to enjoy his love of fishing with Luca. Unfortunately, the only thing they caught was bush trout, but they did enjoy the time together at the lake.
Carey, you definitely made life intriguing. While Amy was at a Girl Guide camp, Carey helped Tyler set up a garage sale. Unfortunately for Amy, Tyler would bring up items; Carey would approve what could be put on the table or not. When Amy came home from camp and went to her bedroom, she discovered all of her Barbies, along with other special items, were sold. It took Carey a long time to live that one down. He became “Top Cookie Seller” of the year for Girl Guides, and he wore a special pin reflecting that with pride. He would help people in need, and he did his best to try and get a smile from you.
To a man who went by many names: Carey, Dad, Father, Papa, Uncle, Papa K, and many more. We love you to eternity and beyond.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM, on Friday, October 23, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Dr. Bruce Martin officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.