Emma Kemp

September 13, 1920 – June 8, 2015

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our beloved Aunt and dear friend Emma Kemp.

Emma was born on the Kardash family homestead near Oscar Lake, Saskatchewan nearly 95 years ago. The family relocated to a farm south of Blaine Lake in 1925, moving to Saskatoon in the late forties so their children could continue their education. Emma attended Saskatoon Business College and married Norman Kemp in 1948. Together they built the Nite Hawk, Saskatoon’s first Drive-in restaurant, situated on 8th Street East where Fuddruckers stands today. In 1956 they became Dairy Queen Franchisees opening their first store on 20th St. & Ave G. and adding the 8th Street location not long after. Ever since, it has opened at the first sign of spring and closed only when winter was here to stay.

Over the years Emma provided a “first job” to literally hundreds of young people, many of whom still express their gratitude and delight for having been given the opportunity to work for “Mrs. Kemp.”

Emma was predeceased by husband Norman in 1984, father John Kardash in 1950, mother Tina Kardash in 1995 and brother Joseph (Joe) Kardash in 2013. Left behind to mourn Emma’s passing is Joe’s family: wife Olga Kardash; son Don Kardash and his wife Brenda and their children - S.J. Kardash (Nicole Romanoff) and Maygen Kardash (Tyler Dunn & baby Petra); daughter Marilyn Kardash and her daughter Christena Whittaker; daughter Debbie Kardash; and daughter Adrienne Stover and her sons, Christopher and Jesse.

Also left behind is Emma’s loyal and devoted friend James Boyd who worked next to her for 35 years and still manages the store. James’s mother Collette and his siblings were also very near and dear to Emma’s heart. Very special to Emma as well, were Blair and Kim Sinclair (now of Calgary) and their children. The Kardash family would like to extend its sincere gratitude to The Boyd and Sinclair Families for the huge and important role they played in Emma’s life.

The family would also like to recognize the Sisters, nurses and staff at St. Joseph’s Home, as well as everyone at Home Instead Senior Care for the genuine care and attention they bestowed upon Emma during her time of need. 

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Emma’s memory may consider a donation to St. Joseph’s Home (33 Valens Dr., Saskatoon, SK, S7L 3S2).

A private service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lisa Ruf - MOURNING GLORY FUNERAL SERVICES (306-978-5200)