KENNETH GORDON

ARTHUR WOOD

July 9, 1951 - April 28, 2022

With heavy hearts, Ken’s family shares the news of his passing on April 28th at the age of 70 years.

 

Remaining to forever cherish his memory are his wife Yvonne and their children, Chris (Sara), Alice (Evan) and Elise (Richard). He was the loving Pepère to Kieran, Kai, Cohen, Elliot, Mikos and Beckett. He will be mourned by siblings Pat, Bob (Jo-Anne) and Wendy (Allen), as well as, sister-in-law Rosemary, brother-in-law Marc (Jennifer), son-in-law Brian, many nieces, nephews, extended family and many lifelong friends. Ken was predeceased by his parents Lyall and Betty Wood, niece Bonnie, nephews Roley and Michael, and brothers-in-law Jim Asplin and Adrien Perras.

 

A naturally gifted runner, he was known as the fastest kid in his Headingley neighbourhood. Ken had a dry sense of humour and generous personality. He had a keen interest in carpentry and mechanics and began work in the automotive industry at Keough’s Gulf Service Station. Eventually, he purchased his dream car, a gold Pontiac GTO. In 1976, Ken commenced employment at J.R. Stephenson initially as a service technician and later on as a sales rep.

 

Ken and Yvonne built their family home in St. François Xavier where they raised their children. Family camping trips in the company of friends was a favourite pastime, especially at Blue Lake and Riding Mountain. Ken and Yvonne enjoyed many golfing vacations from coast to coast, completing their goal to play in every Canadian province. Trips to Phoenix with friends produced many stories, good memories and lots of laughter. Ken was also an avid Jets fan, never missing a game!

 

Ken was a man of integrity with a very high work ethic and profound respect for all. Ken was meticulous in his work, with a firm belief of doing things the right way, the first time.

 

Ken was a loving, supportive husband and a great Dad! He enjoyed all his kids’ activities, never missing a football or baseball game, dance or piano recital, taking any opportunity to spend time with them. Dad taught us to be positive, consistent and to achieve our dreams through hard work, kindness and determination. Dad was our biggest fan, celebrating success and offering encouragement where needed.

 

Due to progressive health issues, Ken retired from Stephenson Equipment in 2017. Recognizing Ken’s increasing challenges, his colleagues presented him with an all-terrain golf car. This incredibly generous gift restored Ken’s mobility for several more years. Many happy hours were spent riding the trails with his grandchildren, visiting neighbours and getting into mischief!

 

Donations in Ken’s memory can be made to Parkinson Canada (Manitoba), the St. François Xavier Roman Catholic Parish Building Fund or a charity of your choice. 

​

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.

 

A tribute and celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2022 in the parish church at 1049 Hwy 26 St. Francois Xavier, Manitoba.  Tribute @ 6:45 p.m. with the Mass to follow at 7:00 p.m.