A Tribute to Ken: Our Favourite "Grouchy Old Man" In September 2016, we moved onto St. John’s Avenue. We didn’t know it yet, but right across the street, we would gain a truly wonderful friend. We can’t quite pinpoint the exact day we officially met Ken, or the precise moment we became friends. He just instantly became a fixture in our lives. Ken wasn’t just a neighbour; he became family. Ken absolutely relished his self-appointed role as the "grouchy old man on the steps." From that perch, he routinely called out to me affectionately with his scratchy-lunged voice, "Hey mama!" Many times, after I drove into the driveway from work or errands, Ken would be outside and I’d head over. We solved many of the world's crises right there on his stoop. Ken was incredibly generous, but doing business with him always came with a strict terms-of-service agreement. Need to borrow a tool? No problem. But there was a catch. The moment Michael walked over to pick it up, he was hit with a surprise contract of at least one or two household tasks that suddenly needed addressing. Michael and Ken were best friends—a true bromance. Michael dropped by Ken’s almost every day to chat, get updates on the neighbourhood, and help him out. They did everything together, including their legendary romantic getaways to the garbage dump. Our son, Talon, served as Ken's personal IT department, constantly fixing his internet, his TV, and the treadmill he barely used. In true Ken fashion, a thank-you pizza would often mysteriously deliver itself to our house afterward. Ken loved poking fun at Talon, inviting him over to explore the third floor, and watching him grow up from a 7-year-old boy into a 17-year-old young man. More than anything, he just loved calling Talon over to chat. They were true buds. As a family, we proudly served as Ken's official grocery guinea pigs. Ken loved online shopping, but he wasn’t always great at ordering things he actually liked. Naturally, those unwanted groceries always found their way across the street and onto our doorstep. We didn’t mind making that sacrifice for him, of course. He adored our boxer, Cassie, and took her for walks—even if it wasn't quite as often as he probably should have. And whenever we were away, we never had to worry, because Ken was always there, fiercely looking after our house and all of our animals. Ken was a man of great love, even if he tried to mask it with his gruffness. He had a massive heart, even though his physical one kept on failing him. Both Michael and I rushed Ken to the emergency room numerous times, always holding onto the hope that his stubborn, fighting spirit would pull him through again. No matter how sick he was, he always checked in on us and let us know if anything on the street looked out of the ordinary. Ken brought so much laughter, terrible jokes, quirkiness, and genuine warmth to St. John’s Avenue and to our family. He proved that family isn't just about a bloodline; sometimes, it’s just the wonderful, stubborn, tool-lending guy living right across the street. I can still hear his voice echoing across the pavement “Hey Mama”! We miss you and we love you so much, Ken. Love, Laurie Michael, Talon, Cassie, and the Cats: Ozzy & Osbourne

Ken was a very dear and cherished friend. We shared many many happy times and laughs. He was a beloved usher at our wedding 33 years ago. Will miss getting together anytime we’re in Winnipeg over the years. Looking forward so much to seeing my dear buddy again.