Obituary of Ken McKenzie

It is with the deepest sorrow that the family of Ken McKenzie announces his passing on November 5, 2009 at the age of 78 years following a courageous battle with lung cancer. Ken was born May 19, 1931 in Regina, Saskatchewan and was raised on a farm near North Battleford. He was predeceased by his parents, Hugh and Mary McKenzie; and his wife, Florence. Left to cherish Kens memory are his wife, Loverna; his children, Kathy (Rick) Thomas, Pat (Darlene) McKenzie, Judy (Michel) McKenzie-Saurette; grandchildren, Suzanne (Richard) Moon, Kristin McKenzie, Michel McKenzie-Saurette; and great-grandson, Rylan Moon; as well as Lovernas children, Randy Fry, Lisa (Charles) Major; granddaughters, Danika, Brisana and Kalista Fry, and Larissa, Ashley, Katelyn and Danielle Major. He is also survived by brother, Ken Fisher (Pat); niece, Buffy; and mother, Elizabeth Fisher of Denver, Colorado. Recently discovered family in Saskatchewan filled Ken with great joy and a sense of completeness, as he eagerly met many cousins, uncles and aunts; all of whom embraced and welcomed him to the Kraus clan. He also leaves to mourn extended family members through marriage. Upon his parents demise, Ken left the farm at the age of 13 and worked his way across western Canada at diverse jobs. He rode the rails, later finding jobs in logging camps in BC. He realized early on he had to work hard to survive. At the age of 18, while working in Calgary, he responded to an ad by the RCMP. The rest is history. Ken was stationed in Ottawa, Saskatoon, Elbow, Melville and Regina. His often unorthodox methods of criminal investigation in his detective work were highly respected. He loved the courtroom. Ken has served as President of the RCMP Veterans Association. He loved the camaraderie of his RCMP family and fellowship until the day he died. Several years were spent working in Provincial Government departments, including becoming Deputy Rentalsman. Ken was renowned as a tremendous storyteller with an acute attention to detail and flawless memory. Chance meetings led to lifelong friendships. He was a member of the Hawarden Masonic Lodge and Shriners. Hobbies included golf, travel, music, cooking, old movies, dancing, hunting, and playing sax and trumpet with the RCMP and local bands. A Legacy CD of his stories was being made, including relevant songs, provided by the Music Therapy Program of Palliative Care. He was the #1 Riders fan, and loved armchair coaching. He was thrilled when four Saskatchewan Roughriders appeared at our door two weeks ago, had coffee and talked football.Ken was so impressed and delighted to have these fine young gentlemen in our home. (A wonderful surprise arranged by a granddaughter). Everywhere Ken went, he always knew somebody. He was positive, non-judgmental and knew how to have fun. Thank you to all who journeyed with us this past year. The Palliative Care Unit team is unsurpassed. As well, the spiritual counseling brought great comfort. To each of Kens doctors, nurses, entire hospital staff, and pastors, your compassion and love touches us deeply. God bless you. The celebration of Kens life will take place Monday, November 9, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. in the RCMP Chapel, Depot Division, 5600 11th Avenue, Regina (use Dewdney Avenue Entrance) with interment in the RCMP Cemetery. A reception will be held in the Officers Mess. In lieu of flowers, donations in memoriam, may be made to Regina Palliative Care Inc., 4F - 4101 Dewdney Avenue, Regina, SK, S4T 7T1 or a charity of your choice. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com