Kenneth James Pickard
1950-2024
Ken passed away peacefully on September 26, 2024 on the date of his choosing (MAiD) at sunset surrounded by those he loved in Edmonton Alberta after a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer.
Ken was the second of five siblings Garry, Evan, Larry and John (Jody) born to Kenneth and Helen Pickard. He is survived by his loving wife Jane (Gowan), daughter Marni Stanislawski, son-in-law Slav, granddaughter Madison, brother Jody, sister-in-law Catherine (Nevala), Bob Nevala, nieces and nephews and our soul family of Dave and Carol Campbell.
With his father’s employment as a gold miner the family moved several times finally settling in Red Lake Ontario. Ken knew at an early age that education was his way to a better life. In 1969 he enrolled at Confederation College to study Hotel and Restaurant Administration graduating in 1970. He began his career moving to Edmonton Alberta working for CN Hotels at the MacDonald Hotel. In 1977 he made the decision to further his education receiving his B.A. in 1982 and his Masters of Administration at the University of Alberta in 1981 all while working full time and raising a family. His dream was to work in a field where his compassionate side could be his everyday life. Ken became the Executive Director of Youville Home in St. Albert for the Grey Nuns of Montreal and in 1991received his Masters in Science in Administration with a concentration in Health Sciences thru the University of Michigan. In 1998 he graduated from St. Paul’s University Ottawa in the Catholic Health Care Leadership Program. In 2001 he took a position as Executive Director with Community Living Thunder Bay until retirement.
Ken was a voracious reader especially mysteries always with several books on the go. On the deck, in the sun, by the beach a must. A Crossword puzzle was his every morning ritual along with keeping informed on political issues around the world. Twice daily walks were a must meeting neighbours with hellos, smiles and conversations. Ken’s yard and gardens were impeccably kept. He was a compulsive dead header in his and everyone else’s garden. Ken was an avid dancer and singer. Singing with the Fort William Male Choir, Thunder Bay was a much loved pass time.
Respecting Ken’s wishes cremation has taken place and a family memorial will be held in the future.
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