Kenneth Harold Wickstrom, of Kelowna, B.C., passed away peacefully at the Kelowna General Hospital on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008 at the age of 84.
Ken is survived by his wife, Shirley; children, Judy Donnelly and Bruce Wickstrom (Betty); step-daughters, Sherry Moran (Tim) and Wendi Stewart (Nigel Coe); and stepson, Laurie Stewart (Lorraine).
Also surviving are his grandchildren, Adam, Jamie, Brian, and Steven Donnelly, Dylan, Travis Enge (Tena) and Keri Hart (Tyler), Aimee Boyer, Samantha Cole, Laurie and Thea Holt, Dawn Bousquet (Derek), and Michelle, Barbara, Kendra, and Nicole Stewart.
Ken also is survived by his brother, Buzzy (Alvin) and wife, Deloris Wickstrom; and seven great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his parents, Otto and Kristie Wickstrom; wife, Mary (Eldridge); son, Christopher; and brothers, John and Allan.
Ken was a veteran of World War II and was very proud of his involvement as a member of The Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders, Winnipeg Regiment (signing up before he was of age at 17).
Ken and his first wife, Mary, developed a tourist camp, carving it out of the wilderness of Northwestern Ontario, and spent so many delightful times there. He also worked at the paper mill in Fort Frances, Ont. as a millwright, retiring at the age of 62.
He belonged to many service organizations, including the Masons, Shriners, and the Lion’s Club. He so enjoyed his life at Missonwood, and had many friends there. He also was devoted to his church (First United in Kelowna).
Ken had a wonderful sense of humour, a kind and gentle heart (big smile), and lit up the world, making us all laugh.
In lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations can be made to the charity of one’s choice.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held Thursday, Oct. 23, 2008 at 1 p.m. at Knox United Church in Fort Frances, Ont.
Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialkelowna.com
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