Ken Wamsley

June 24, 1938 - July 3, 2024

In loving memory ~

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Kenneth Lawrence Wamsley of Benalto at the Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre on July 3, 2024 at the age of 86.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and brother, he will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Born in Didsbury, Alberta in 1938, Ken lived in Calgary with Mum and Unc, Rachel and Elkiah Goudie, his aunt and uncle, who provided a steady place for Ken to go to school. Ken attended Western Canada High School, after which he coached the high school girl's basketball team. Here he met his wife, Gwen and married October 17, 1959 at the tender ages of 19 and 21.

Off to Beatton River on a dirt road and little money, to work for the Department of Transportation as a radio operator. Inuvik was the next stop where Ken and Gwen worked for CBC radio, as Ken also worked at the airport. Daughter Kerry arrived while Ken was the volunteer fire chief. He was part of the first graduating class of the Vermillion Fire School.

Ken was instrumental in developing sports for all, taking the first indigenous team to national tournaments in basketball and softball. Ken cut the first ice road to Tuktoyaktuk. A one year commitment turned into a ten year adventure followed by a move to Kamloops, BC. Ken then worked for the airport in ticket sales, cargo and any other tasks, shipping everything from people to camp supplies to dog teams. Ken went to work for Pacific Western Airlines in sales and marketing bringing many folks to know skiing in the Okanogan and the warmth of Hawaii, beginning the move to Edmonton and Sherwood Park.

Ken also had part ownership of Katimavik Lodge on Gordon Lake, where he caught his 28lb lake trout. Ken finished his working world as a Hotshot Courier. Beyond the working life was Ken's love of basketball and softball.

Ken was a referee with the Edmonton Basketball Association, earning Life Member status in 2003. Ken was also awarded Honorary Life Member with the Alberta Basketball Association in 2019. Ken refereed able bodied and wheelchair athletes including Terry Fox at the National level. Ken was an evaluator, helping many referees refine and improve their craft.

Ken received the J.A. "Wink" Willox Award of Merit in recognition of outstanding contributions made to Basketball and Basketball Officiating in October of 2020.

Ken went on to umpiring as well with over 45 years in the game, only hanging up his mask in 2021. He was awarded Umpire of the Year in 1993 and is the first lifetime member of the Alberta Softball Umpires Association in 2023.

Ken's final move was to Benalto, where he built his own home, supported the teaching endeavors of daughter Kerry, and was the best grandpa to Andrea after the passing of wife, Gwen in 2011.

Ken is survived by daughter Kerry and her husband, Gary with granddaughter Andrea. Ken is also survived by brother Dick (Anita) and sister Lorraine (Barri); nephews Dwayne, Don, Doug, Dawson along with nieces Denise, Jenna, Suz-Ann and Connie. He was known to many as Dad, Uncle and Grampa.

Ken was predeceased by his wife, Gwen and nephew Scott. "Keep your eyes up." Celebration of Life will be held September 7, 2024 at 2 p.m. at Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5020 48 St, Sylvan Lake, AB.

Condolences can be made at prairierosefunerals.ca