KENNETH GEORGE YUEL

It is with broken hearts that we announce, with family at his side, the peaceful passing of Kenneth George Yuel. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Joyce, his children, Shawna (James), Scott (Courtney), Chelsea (Kyle), and Curtis (Kayla). Ken also leaves his father, George and his siblings, Kathy, Doug (Kelly), Wanda (Phil), Gary, Duane and Dale (Barb), and sister-in-law Marlene (Ken). Also numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews will feel his loss.

Ken was born in 1954, a twin with his sister Kathy. He lived on the family farm in Saskatchewan until he was 12 years old. In 1965 the family moved to a larger farm outside Neepawa, Manitoba. Ken wasn’t that enamoured with farm life other than the fact that he got to drive various tractors, trucks and cars at a very young age. Thus began his love of cars. In 1971 the family moved to the big city of Winnipeg and settled in Norwood. Ken made Winnipeg his home and raised his family there.

Ken spent his career in public service. He retired as the Regional Director of Security and Emergency Preparedness, Transport Canada, Prairies and Northern Region. Over the course of his career Ken travelled to all corners of the world, photographing his travels and making lasting friendships along the way.

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Ken lived a very full life with many varied interests and excelled at everything he took an interest in. His love of cars and travel led him to make many road trips with his friends and family. His first road trip was in his late teens with his brother and a friend in a 1974 GMC Sprint to South Padre Island, Texas. Needless to say it was a tight fit with 3 grown men. His later road trips with friends Phil Conroy, Steve Barker and Jim Thiessen were done in much more comfort! Ken took many trips to his favourite city, New Orleans over the years. Always taking a friend or family members along as he loved to show them this culturally rich city.

Ken fostered many long-lasting friendships and added becoming a marriage commissionaire to his many talents when his good friend Steve asked him if he would perform the ceremony when he married Jackie. Ken was honoured by this and later went on to marry 3 of his beautiful nieces, a nephew as well as a few friends.

Ken was a meticulous craftsman and enjoyed working on various projects for his family and friends. He built a fabulous outdoor bar and christened it “Margaritaville”. Ken loved hosting parties for any occasion for family, friends and colleagues. Summer days were spent enjoying food, drinks and a “rinse” (swim).

We all cherish the laughs and conversation we had during these wonderful times.

Ken and Joyce were able to spend their retirement winters in La Quinta, California where they made many friends. Ken never tired of driving out to the Salton Sea or through Joshua Tree Park to photograph the stark and beautiful landscapes.

More recently Ken played a large role with Sleep In Heavenly Peace, a charity that builds and provides beds for Winnipeg children who are in need. Ken’s friend Jim Thiessen started the Winnipeg chapter of this charity and Ken and Joyce were honoured to help. Ken became the Build Director and VP. He coordinated the purchase of all the tools and set up for the bed building events.

Ken had such a magnetic personality. He found it easy to make friends and throughout his too short life he made friends all over the world. He loved his “Joycee” and his children and was so very proud of them. He will be remembered as the amazing husband, father, son, sibling, uncle, and friend that he was. Rest easy Ken, we love you.

In honour of Ken’s wishes, there will be no service.

The family welcomes donations in Ken’s honour to the Cancer Research Society. 

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Ken's family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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