Obituary of John Kenneth McInnis

KEN (JOHN KENNETH) McINNIS September 27, 1925 September 25, 2012 We are sad to announce the sudden passing of Ken, loving husband of 65 years to Helen; father of Ken Jr. (Deb) and Thom (Cathy Ann); and gramps to Janelle and Isaac. Predeceased by his parents Rose and Norman; sisters, Shirley Ufton and Bev Hamilton; and survived by his brother Norm of Saskatoon. He passed away quickly at home with his wife at his side on a beautiful fall morning with the sun breaking through the Prairie skies he loved so well. To his very last breath he remained a devoted and loving husband, father and gramps. Dad was born in Regina, went to Haultain School and Central High. As a very young and brave seventeen year old man, he decided to sign up for WWII, where he trained as a coder and gunner working on mine sweepers and escort ships on the Atlantic Ocean. He was on his way to the Asian theatre when the war ended. Following the war, he began work in the warehouse of General Electric in Regina. After promotions to Fort William, Winnipeg, and Saskatoon, he returned full circle to Regina to be the branch manager. There he finished a successful 42 year career, winning numerous sales awards along the way. Although he loved his job, he decided to retire in 1989 so he could spend more time at his Regina Beach cottage. A truly dedicated family man, he was a great inspiration and coach to his sons and grandchildren. He attended as many activities as he could, from football to soccer to basketball and always made time to encourage and provide a few pointers. He took great pride and satisfaction in seeing his grandchildren grow and loved to encourage them to be the very best that they could be. He was a dedicated volunteer, willing to share his energy and talent. From founding President of the Eastview Community Association, to holding numerous lodge and Shrine positions, including playing in the Saskatoon Drum and Bugle Corps, Ken lived for the service of others. He worked hard in his later life, on behalf of the Shrine Centre, organizing trips for Saskatchewan children to receive medical help at the Shriners Hospital in Montreal. He maintained close relationships with the children, their families and the medical staff long after surgeries were complete and healing had taken place. He was everyones gramps in that sense. One of many philanthropic highlights was serving as Potentate of the WA WA Shrine in 1983. He was an honoured 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason. He became a Mason in 1962 in Fort William and eventually affiliated with King Hiram Lodge in Regina, becoming their Worshipful Master in 1995. In 1997 he served as a District Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan. Ken was also an active member in the Royal Order of Jesters and Royal Order of Scotland. In the recent years, even when he was really slowing down, he dedicated his last energies to being with Helen. Their life of 65 years together was celebrated this June. Ken meant everything to Helen and he will be deeply missed by her, his family and friends. He was a man of character and kindness. A man that has touched many, many lives and will be remembered, with appreciation and love, forever. Memorial Service will take place at Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina, SK on Friday September 28, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Flowers are most gratefully declined; however friends so wishing may make a donation in memoriam to the WA WA Shrine Patient Transportation Fund, Shrine Centre, 2065 Hamilton Street, Regina S4P 2E1, or a charity of their choice. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com