Kimberley George Patrick Kienapple

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Kimberley George Patrick Kienapple at Shannex Moody Hall, Halifax on November 10th, 2025. Kim was born in Kitchener-Waterloo the 11th of January 1955, son of Louis and Bernice Kienapple.

Kim’s lifelong commitment to understanding and supporting children began early in his academic studies at St. Jerome’s College, University of Waterloo, where he earned his BA Honours in 1978. He went on to complete his Ph.D. in Child and Youth Study at Purdue University in 1983.

Kim and his late wife Jean (Hamill) made Nova Scotia their home when he joined the Department of Child and Youth Study at Mount Saint Vincent University, beginning a 38-year career at an institution he deeply respected. Over his first decades at the Mount, he became known as an exceptional teacher, developing a wide range of courses and mentoring countless undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate students. As a researcher, he published widely and contributed to major projects supported by SSHRC, Health Canada, and other partners. His integrity, thoughtfulness, and quiet sense of humour made him a respected colleague and leader. This earned him the rank of full professor in 2009. As a leader, he stayed focused on others, not himself, listened deeply and responded thoughtfully and constructively.

Within the University, Kim was a ubiquitous fixture in its administration, serving terms as Department Chair and member of Senate, and in 2009 as Acting Dean of Professional and Graduate Studies. He was appointed Dean in 2010 and led with humility, compassion, and deep care for students, faculty, and staff. He postponed his retirement to help guide the University through the challenges of the pandemic - an example of his unwavering dedication to the community he served. The University Senate recognized Kim’s dedication and achievement by awarding him the rank of Professor Emeritus upon his retirement in 2022.

Beyond his academic work, Kim was an intellectual to his core, with a sharp wit, a dry sense of humour, and a fierce loyalty that included an unwavering—if sometimes questionable—devotion to the Montreal Canadiens. Those qualities served him well as an athlete, playing football in his youth and a goalie in University Hockey and Gentlemen league until he was 60.

Soft yet stubborn, selfless and kind, he carried a gentle strength that shaped every part of his life. Kim found deep joy in simple, meaningful routines. He loved his dogs dearly and could often be found with them on long, peaceful walks at Sandy Lake and Oakfield Park, some of his favorite places. He also cherished his time on the water and took great pleasure in boating, a pastime that offered him both adventure and calm.

Throughout his life, Kim fed his passion for exploring the world. He loved travelling to new places and especially enjoyed cruises, where he could relax, discover new cultures, and spend unhurried time with those he loved. These experiences brought him joy, curiosity, and a lifetime of stories.

Kim is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn (Tiller); his children Alexander (Alix) and Katelin (Travis); and his stepchildren Andrea (Dillon), Logan (Haley), and Julia (Ash). He was a deeply proud father whose steady support, patience, and quiet resilience live on through his children and stepchildren.

He was also the beloved “Papa” to his grandchildren: Dylan, Jackson, Waylon, Sophia, Lennon, Abigail, William, and Quinn, each of whom was drawn to his warm presence, gentle humour, and soft, loving hugs.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Unit 8.4 at the Halifax Infirmary and Shannex Moody Hall for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity shown to Kim in his final months.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Multi-Purpose Room at Mount Saint Vincent University on January 11th 2026, from 2:00–5:00 p.m., where family, friends, and colleagues will gather to honour Kim’s life, his work, and the many lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brain Injury Association of Nova Scotia, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by brain injury.

While his passing leaves a deep absence for those who loved him, there is peace in knowing he is not alone on the next part of his journey. His legacy lives on in his family, in the countless students and colleagues he inspired, and in the gentle, steady impact he had on every life he touched.