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Ken Yuel

Image by Nick Andréka

KENNETH GEORGE YUEL

1954 - 2023

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.

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

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.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Michael Blackey

March 27, 2023 at 2:19 PM

No matter how long I sit here the words are not coming, only the tears. Tears of joy having known Kenny and tears of sorrow to express my most deepest of sympathies to Joyce, the children and the entire Yuel family as well as the rest of us that he has touched. I was the friend ( being the smallest) in  the middle seat of the 74 Sprint on our 26 day trip to South Padre. Gary was to the right of me and he would bend down below the dash when passing cars on the road making it look like I was cuddling with Kenny. We would laugh so hard. Kenny and I lived together for over 10 years, sometimes with room mates including brother Duane and Paul D and Ray W. Often was said by family and friends we should get married the way we got along. We were together the day we both bought our first cameras, Pentax K1000. LOL humble beginnings for Ken. Look how that turned out. We worked together at the old Winnipeg arena when in high school, George got us the job. Ken went into the WPD academy after that. I remember him being at home and polishing his boots. This must have been one of those things he took an interest in because he certainly excelled at it. I have yet to see a shinier pare of boots then his. Soo many stories over the years reminding me of how lucky I have been to have had Ken as a friend. Sharing stories until sunup with Ken, Joyce and the kids at Margaritaville after Georges party was a great and memorable experience for me and I thank you all for that. As I have lost touch with most of you I will leave my phone number, please feel free to call or text 204-782-3769. To my dear friend Ken, you have meant so much to me over the years, rest in peace till we meet again. Michael Blackey

Theresa

March 8, 2023 at 8:36 AM

My deepest sympathies to the family. I knew Ken through Flickr as a fellow photographer. His art was incredible. Rest in peace Ken. 

Colleen

February 28, 2023 at 10:37 AM

My deepest condolences Joyce.❤ Colleen

Linda Goodman

February 12, 2023 at 12:21 PM

What a wonderful tribute and video biography for such a special man. We are so very sorry to hear about Ken's passing. I met Ken originally on Flickr where I discovered his amazing talent for photography. He was so encouraging of my own work and became a constant and supportive friend. We met a few times and it was clear why so many people were drawn to him like a magnet - his warm smile and ready laugh were infectious. He was truly one in a million! Our deepest condolences to Joyce and his entire family. Let his Love for you give you strength as you move forward. ❤️‍🩹 I will miss you Ken! Rest In Peace my Friend. - Linda and Eric Goodman

Evelyn Ramsay/Auffrey

February 11, 2023 at 3:47 PM

❤ Sad to hear of Kens passing.  I worked in Thompson when Ken was ICO officer. We shared lots of laughs and I introduced him to Ozzie. Ken visited us when we lived in Fall River, N.S.  If Ken was in the room, there was laughter! I never got to meet you Joyce but my deepest sympathy to you, Kens family and his Dad. Gone all too soon. Ken left a great memory and smile with everyone he met. I can't imagine your loss. 

Ozzie Auffrey

February 11, 2023 at 2:47 PM

My dear friend Ken, i just learned of this today and i am sad. Ken and I met in Winnipeg when I was with Transport Canada. I immediately liked him and we had somewhat similar backgrounds, having been both municipal police officers during our time. As it worked out I transferred back to the Atlantic region and Ken ended up winning my position in Winnipeg. So from those years on we worked together in different regions and had many occasions to become good friends and he was an inspector I highly respected. As time moved on I became Regional Director of the Atlantic region and shortly thereafter Ken became Regional Director for Prairie and Northern region. We were a team and stood together on many issues for which we new were the best for the federal security system. Ken was very intelligent, very sociable and trustworthy, I valued his friendship. I didn't know he was ill, i would have gone to Winnipeg to see him had i known. My condolences to his wife and family. What a great guy... Ozzie Auffrey

Lisa Breurkens

February 11, 2023 at 8:43 AM

In my 26 years of working at Costco Ken and Joyce were among my top favorite members to serve.  I am retired now but will always remember Joyce and Ken for being so friendly and pleasant.  They always seemed to be having fun and I lived vicariously through their travels.  What devastating news, my deepest condolences to Joyce and family. ❤ Lisa Breurkens

Cathy Dickerson Boyce

February 10, 2023 at 9:26 PM

My deepest condolences to Joyce and the Yuel family, Ken will be missed by so many ❤

Ray Wiebe

February 9, 2023 at 9:58 AM

I was deeply saddened to hear about Ken’s passing.  We were very good friends from a different time era.   We travelled on numerous road trips, drank too much and had more fun than is legally allowed. Ken had a magnetic personality, he’s the guy you were always happy to see at a party or outing, a true ‘mensch’.  He has left me with some great memories for which I am truly grateful. My deep condolences for Joyce and the kids.  Also, I wish to send my sympathies to Ken’s father, George, and the rest of Ken’s siblings, I know it will never be the same without him around. Rest in Peace my good buddy.

Françoise Fougères

February 9, 2023 at 3:19 AM

Oh my God ! it's not possible Ken is a longtime photographer friend in 2008 when I started doing photography and I opened a FLICKR account he gave me so much advice on my photos, we had a lot exchanged, I felt it very close. It was a beautiful friendship thanks to the photo. I am devastated to learn of his departure but I know that up there, he continues to send us his best smile. He was so close to us. KEN I will never forget you.

Debbie Warren

February 8, 2023 at 9:36 PM

I am so sad to hear of Ken’s passing. I truly enjoyed working with Ken at Transport, he was always fun and positive. Joyce my deepest sympathies and to the extended family. He will be missed. ❤

Kimber Hansen

February 8, 2023 at 8:14 PM

I only knew Ken from FB but followed him actively because of his beautiful pictures. Ken commented on some of mine I’m sure out of kindness because mine were nothing special compared to his.   Ken’s kindness was felt online in his comments.  His love of nature and color really struck me.  Ken, forever dance in the color of the wildflowers.    Rest peacefully.    All my condolences to his wife, family and friends.   You made a difference🌷❤️‍🩹🌷

Judy Redl

February 8, 2023 at 5:22 PM

My deepest condolences to Joyce and the Yuel family.

Maureen Cowan

February 6, 2023 at 10:52 PM

Ken was a true gentleman and an amazing colleague at Transport Canada.  My sincerest condolences to Ken’s family and many, many friends.  

Bill Stuart

February 6, 2023 at 7:13 AM

Condolences to Joyce and Family, Ken was a great friend, gone way too soon, Rest In Peace Ken

Betty

February 5, 2023 at 11:48 PM

Our deepest condolences and prayers to Joyce and family,  Betty and Pete Madsen

Valerie Yuel-Miller

February 5, 2023 at 7:25 PM

So sorry to hear if   Ken’s passing.  My heart goes out to Joyce and their children and also to his father George and his brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews. Ken had a great sense if humour and was always wonderful to me.  I will miss him and will remember him with great fondness always!  ❤

Chandren Amoolnathan

February 5, 2023 at 6:23 PM

My deepest sympathy to Joyce & family. Ken was a true leader who cared for everyone in the working and personal environment. I was very lucky to have worked for and with him. A great motivator and a true officer and gentleman. Will miss u very much Ken. RIP my friend. 

Junior Gosse

February 5, 2023 at 4:04 PM

Sorry to hear this sad news.  I worked in the same department as Ken only on the East coast, but we shared common goals and similar ideas on how to get the job done.  Ken was a great leader and I always cherished the time I spent with him and fellow workmates from Winnipeg.  We did great work in my view and stepped it up a couple of notches when we were off duty.  My condolences to his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace  Junior Gosse

Bruce

February 5, 2023 at 1:49 PM

Our heartfelt condolences to Joyce & family.  Ken was a terrific, caring & helpful friend, colleague, Regional Manager and Regional Director with Transport Canada, one couldn’t ask for more.  He always had your back, forever encouraging, insightful, & always positive. A true leader. Janice & I had many great times with Ken & Joyce, always enjoyed the stories, music & plenty of laughs. Always up for an adventure in Bombay Beach/East Jesus come to mind. We feel grateful to have had those experiences with Ken & will always cherish them. This tribute reflects Ken perfectly; we will miss you. Gone too soon, Rest easy Ken❤ Bruce & Janice 

Brad and Sandra

February 5, 2023 at 12:39 PM

We sure miss Ken. We can’t count how many times we laughed until we cried, caught our breath only to start laughing all over again. We have so many great memories of Ken that we will cherish forever.

Jocelyn Harrison, Tuxedo Dental Group

February 5, 2023 at 11:50 AM

I am so sorry to hear this. Ken was one of my most favourite patients, always super upbeat and happy. A very proud man of his family. Sending love and prayers to all. 

Michael Gravenor

February 5, 2023 at 11:04 AM

My sincere condolences to Joyce and family. It has been such a pleasure doing business with Ken over the past few years. His sincerity, respect for people and willingness to share parts of his life with, basically, a stranger, left a lasting impresion on me. RIP Ken, will miss your visits to our office. 

Leslie Yeoman

February 5, 2023 at 8:52 AM

So sorry Joyce, my condolences to you and all family & friends.

Dave Lysyk

February 5, 2023 at 8:20 AM

Sad to see another good quality person is gone....RIP  Ken

Craig Kirby

February 4, 2023 at 11:07 PM

My deepest condolences to Joyce and the family. Ken was a very special person who will be very sadly missed.

Brent Lusty

February 4, 2023 at 9:48 PM

My deepest condolences to the entire Yuel family. Ken and I were friends and co- workers at WPS , Employment and Immigration, and Transport Canada. Many wonderful memories. Rest in Peace Ken. Brent Lusty 

David & Terry Murray

February 4, 2023 at 8:10 PM

Our deepest sympathy’s to Joyce and Ken’s family and many friends.  We have had the pleasure of working with and knowing Ken since 1998.  A wonderful colleague, friend and very special person.  His photographs, adventures and stories have brought many smiles and will bring many, many more.  Godspeed Ken.

Cheryl and Len

February 4, 2023 at 4:04 PM

Our condolences to Ken’s entire family and circle of friends. Ken and Joyce, you both made family gathering time fun and interesting. Ken always had a plan and was able to enlighten us on many new and interesting items whether it was travel, renovations , or life in general. Our association to Ken and Joyce through our son Kyle and Chelsea was a friendship blessing. 

Mike Pearson

February 4, 2023 at 2:44 PM

I am so blessed to have met, worked for and with Ken.  He wass one of the classiest people I've ever known.   You will be missed. 

February 4, 2023 at 12:59 PM

I am forever grateful for ken's friendship, support and gift that has now blossomed into a life long photography career for me. Ken gave my my first professional camera after years of following me on flickr.  I am very sad to hear of his death and offer my sympathy to his family. ❤

Larry Bailey

February 4, 2023 at 11:40 AM

oh, Kenny, gonna miss you my friend.  We had great times at the WPD. It was great meeting again after our careers and visiting Margaritaville Charleswood.  Will never forget you!!!   Condolences to the family.

Kenneth Arthur

February 4, 2023 at 10:56 AM

Please accept my sincere condolences.  I will remember Ken fondly as a mentor, colleague and friend.  He will be missed.

Mary Nykerk

February 4, 2023 at 10:45 AM

Our hearts are broken for Joyce and all Ken’s family and friends. We forged a friendship with Ken and Joyce years ago during our winters spent in La Quinta.  He had a vast knowledge of virtually every subject. He loved American politics and when in California even got up at 3 am to watch Morning Joe! He could carry on a conversation with anyone about anything! We will always remember Ken as having a love of music, photography, travel and his family. Gatherings were never boring when Ken was there! Between singing, dancing and telling stories, he held a rapt audience. Forever in our hearts, Larry and Mary Nykerk

Blaine Krawchuk

February 4, 2023 at 10:41 AM

My condolences to the Yuel family.  I have fond memories of Ken, he was a great guy

Mae Snider

February 4, 2023 at 10:25 AM

Condolences to Joyce and the Yuel family. Beautiful tribute, special Love and hugs to my dearest friend Wanda..my heart is aching for you..Hugs to all of you.

Sherri

February 4, 2023 at 10:16 AM

My deepest sympathy to Joyce and family.  May your love and cherished memories help guide you through the difficult times ahead.  R.I.P. Ken.❤

Louise Morgan

February 4, 2023 at 9:54 AM

Gary and family, my sincere condolences in the passing of your brother. Losing a sibling is never easy . May your fond memories of him keep him close to your heart.  May he rest in peace.  Louise Morgan

Wayne Lymburner

February 4, 2023 at 8:52 AM

RIP my friend.
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