Ken Gardiner

April 17, 1941 - March 30, 2025

Ken was a man who loved life, travel, and people - always finding a chance to share an interesting story with a stranger and always willing to lend a helping hand. Ken lived an active life and made sports a part of his life, including curling, golf, and hockey - even playing on a hockey team until he was 80 years old. Ken also loved being in nature, whether it was hunting or camping, and was an avid birder.

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Ken after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS.)

Ken was born on April 17, 1941, in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, during the Second World War. Growing up as a military child, Ken lived in many different towns across Canada, including Gladstone, Winnipeg and Shiloh, Manitoba; Repentigny, Quebec; and Wainwright Alberta among others.

Ken attended the University of Guelph, training to become a veterinarian, graduating in 1965. He has described the time in Guelph as some of the best years of his life, continuing to maintain friendships with his classmates 60 years later. He found work in Alberta and started dating Judy Majeau, before marrying her in 1968.

They enjoyed a wonderful marriage together for 47 years, settling in Sylvan Lake before Judy died in 2015. Together they travelled the world, including a memorable trip to Australia and New Zealand.

Ken was lucky enough to find love twice in his lifetime, marrying Judy Hauk in 2017. He continued his love of travel and being active, taking Judy Hauk on trips to Palm Springs and hiking in Utah. He also enjoyed spending time with Judy Hauk's children and grandchildren during their time together.

During his time in Sylvan Lake, Ken volunteered and became a valued member of the community in so many ways that we don't have room to number them here, but they included coaching both hockey and softball, volunteering for the Salvation Army at Christmas, and, more recently, supporting the work of the Sylvan Lake and District Lions Club.

Ken is survived by his wife Judy, three children - Faye Peterson (Jim), Gail Martin (Murray), and Kevin Gardiner; along with five grandchildren - Darci Better (Mike), Chelsea Peterson, Harrison and Lois Gardiner, and Samuel Martin; and three great-grandchildren, Isaac, Gideon and Jude Better.

Ken is also survived by his brothers - Bob (Judy), Brian (Pat) and Harold (Sandy).

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Thursday, April 3, at the Sylvan Lake Legion Branch 212 from 1 to 3:30 pm. Come and share stories and memories of Ken over a drink and honour a life that was well lived.