Obituary of Ken Baker

Kenneth “Ken” Norman Baker passed away at the Lloydminster Hospital on Monday, November 23, 2020 at the age of 79 years.

Ken is survived by: his loving wife of 55 years, Jean; daughter, Deb (Kirby) Renton; grandchildren, Chase, Brynn (Daniel Hilsendager) and Gage (Jenna McGarry); sister, Elaine Brown of Yorkton, Saskatchewan; niece, Juanita (Allan) Polegi and family of Jedburgh, Saskatchewan; and nephew, Dean Brown (Terry Senft) and family of Turtleford, Saskatchewan.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Norman and Evelyn Baker of Turtleford, Saskatchewan, in 1996.

The Funeral Service for Ken will be conducted on Friday, November 27, 2020 at 2:00 PM at McCaw Funeral Chapel. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this service is by invitation only.  As per Ken’s wishes, the family has chosen not to live stream this service; however, a video tribute to Ken, prepared by his grandchildren, will be posted to the McCaw Funeral Service website under Ken’s obituary following the service.

Donations in memory of Ken may be made to the Grace United Church or Lloydminster Kidsport.

Ken's funeral card can be viewed or downloaded from the link below.

https://indd.adobe.com/view/70f6e297-e521-48a9-90aa-b73293e24b2d

Tribute ~ 

Auntie Jean, Debbie & Kirby, Gage, Brynn & Chase:

On Sept 13, 1941 a little girl named Elaine drove with her Dad Norman and her Mom Evelyn to Melfort.  She was dropped off at her grandparents house.  Several hours later, she & her granny went to the hospital where she could see her Mom holding a baby.  Her Granny told her, “that’s your new baby brother!”  And so Kenneth Norman Baker was introduced to the world. 

Four years later, the family moved to Turtleford.  Ken was raised in a loving home and he had many, many friends.  He was active in sports playing baseball and hockey and was a member of the Turtleford Army Cadets.  He had several leadership roles in Cadets including that of Commanding Officer of his home corps.

As Mayor Aalbers mentioned on TV the other night, Ken had opinions.  He began expressing those at an early age when his Grade 1 teacher called him Kenny.  He tolerated that for a few days and then he told her, “I am not Kenny I am Kenneth!”  Henceforth he was called Kenneth.

His hard work ethic was developed at a young age.  When he was about 8 or 9 years old, he took an afterschool job as Delivery Boy for Fletcher’s Fine Foods.  He delivered groceries to homemakers by wagon in the summer and sled in the winter for the princely sum of $5 per week.

Ken’s very generous nature was also expressed at an early age.  With his first pay cheque from Fletcher’s, he bought a pale blue blouse encrusted with rhinestones as a gift.  His mom suggested to him that was a lot of money for one gift.  He replied, “It doesn’t matter.  It’s for my sister.”

It seemed to me that Uncle Ken was always around when I was a child.  And then one day, a beautiful, petite blond lab technician named Jean Rennie came to work at the Turtleford Hospital.   Didn’t see so much of Uncle Ken anymore.  I don’t remember much about their courtship but I do remember that on June 26, 1965 – Aunite Jean looked like a princess in her beautiful wedding gown.

In 1966, Ken & Jean moved to Lloydminster where Ken accepted a position with Nelson Lumber.

A few years later, we learned that a baby was on the way!  On September 16, Debra Jean was born and Ken became a very proud Dad.

Watching Debbie grown and attending her many activities were happy days for Ken.

Building the cabin at Turtle Lake and the time spent there with friends and family were also very special to him.  As were the family ski trips.

I will now share some memories of Ken from his family:

His sister, Elaine, describes Ken as a generous, loving and caring brother.  As children, they were playmates and as adults they have many enjoyable times visiting.  She said Ken was always there for her.  She loved him dearly and was so very proud of him.

Uncle Ken was always there for Dean and I, too.  He entertained us with his stories from the time we were little to now.  He would often tell us that if we were going to “hoot with the owls at night, we better be ready to soar with the eagles by day”.  And I learned that if you made a statement, you better have the facts to back it up or Kenny would have you swinging in the wind in pretty short order!

Dean has this to say about old Uncle Ken:

Ken and I had a long history.  He took me fishing with Old Nobby when I was about 6 years old and I caught my first fish.  When I was a little Dean, he and his friend were working on renovations to our house when I dropped my hammer down a cinder block wall. Ken quit what he was doing and wasted an hour trying to fish it out. It didn’t happen and he felt bad but I think that deep down, Ken was happy to get the little pain in his ass out of his hair!  Ken was always interested in what us kids were doing and I think he was proud of my accomplishments over the years -  even if some weren’t to be proud of!  Ken was at my house earlier this spring giving me the gears about one thing or another and I told him if he didn’t quit, I’d put a love knot in his air line!  I got a laugh out of him for that.  Anyway, I could tell stories all day about my buddy Uncle Ken.  He loved his grandnieces and nephews very much and hardly missed one of Joseph’s sporting events in Lloydminster. I think he was proud of Joseph starting his own business in LaRange.  So, all I can say is I loved the guy to death and he and Jean treated me like a son which will be with me until my time on this planet is done.  Anyway, I love you man, and I miss you so much.

Ken’s grandchildren put together a compilation of memories:

Times spent with Papa Ken were times enjoying the simple things. Conversations were genuine and crib games were competitive. There is no end to memories that have been made and the stories that could be told.

Papa struggled with technology. “Struggle” might be an understatement, but he was determined to understand the “functions” and the “formulas”, as he would say. He would frequently ask the kids for help when searching the week’s lottery numbers or hockey stats, or when trying to erase a string of old text messages. Reluctantly they would oblige, knowing that it would not be a quick teaching session (insert eye roll and laughing face).

Once he figured out how to text and when he discovered emojis, he loved sending messages to the kids. Every message began with the same greeting, “Howdy”. And every message ended with, “Love Papa”, followed by a line of his favorite emojis, chosen specifically for each of them. Regardless of the content of the message, Gage’s messages closed with a construction worker, a graduation cap, and a fist.  Brynn’s closed with the graduating girl emoji, graduating boy (for Daniel), a blushy face and red heart.  And for Chase, a hockey net, hockey stick and red heart.

His favorite past time was watching his grandchildren do what they love, whether that be watching Brynn dance or the boys play hockey. He was at every event possible, and he was the proudest one in the crowd.  Not only did he love watching Gage, Brynn and Chase, he loved all the friends they made along the way, and was sure to make them feel welcome and like part of the family. He may not have always gotten their names right, but he invested in them all the same.

For Papa Ken, every moment was a teachable moment.  It was important to him that the kids not only understood the “how” but also the “why”. He had plenty of wisdom to impart, and he was always enthusiastic about sharing it, especially with the kids. He taught them the values of hard work and patience. He demonstrated the importance of slowing down and taking your time. And most importantly, he demonstrated that nothing is more important than family.

The kids compiled a short list of some of Papa Ken’s favorite expressions,

“Howdy”, “Measure twice, cut once”, “Keep your stick on the ice”, “Brynzy Brynzy” and “You guys look after Grandma”.

Each of the grandkids have shared their own personal thoughts as well:

A tribute from Gage….

When I think of my papa, a million things come to mind. The three things that stick out in my mind the most about him would be how proud he was of his family, his work and his city. How caring he was, no matter who you were or what you had done. And how he was not only our family’s biggest supporter, but everyone’s biggest supporter, whether that be at the at the rink, the dance studio, or out in the community.

Papa Ken has taught me more in life than anyone could in a hundred lifetimes. He will forever be my hero and the man who I aspire to be one day. I could not think of a better role model and could not be more proud to be able to call him my grandfather.

The memories with him will never be forgotten and I will keep him with me every day.

Papa, you were truly the best and I miss you so much.

Thoughts from Brynn…..

My biggest supporter, my mentor, my hero….

Words cannot describe how proud I am to call this man my papa. He was the kindest, most loving man, and anyone who was lucky to meet him can attest to that. His wisdom, guidance, and constant love are something that I have appreciated more than anything, and something that I will cherish forever.

Heaven has gained the most beautiful angel, and I know that he will be watching over us every single day. Not a day will go by where we will not miss you and all the love you brought to this world. Love you forever and always, Papa Ken.

A message from Chase….

It is hard to find any words in this hard time. There is no better mentor, influence and grandpa in the world. This man touched the hearts of many people throughout the community and he dedicated his life to two things – family and the City of Lloydminster. I love you, Papa Ken. Thank you for everything you have done for me. I miss you. Please come back. Rest in Peace, Papa Ken.

Thoughts on moving forward from Jean and Deb….

“Death ends a life, not a relationship. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here”.

This quote, from Tuesdays with Morrie, by Mitch Albom,  provides a reminder that although we will no longer be in the physical presence of this great husband, father, grandfather and friend, we have the opportunity to hold him close in our hearts and to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.

It is indeed an opportunity and a blessing to have a husband and father who has led with his heart, be it as a leader of our family, a businessman, a volunteer, or a community leader. No one can ever doubt the passion he had for family and community. Everyone who knew him recognized his commitment to doing the right thing, his commitment to learning and growth, and his commitment to supporting others.

And although it has only been a few short days since his passing, his legacy is one to be so very proud of. The impact he had, not only on our family, but on so many others - some known to us, some not - is truly hard to comprehend. The legacy, the heritage and the memories should be considered a precious gift that he has left behind for us – a gift we can open whenever we wish or whenever we need.

Throughout our life, most of us will collect a small handful of people who help us become the person we are destined to be. For the members of this little family, he was one of those people. He showed us through his words and his deeds what it means to be a person of integrity and honor, who loves with his whole heart, and for that we are all so very proud.

Ken….Dad….your wings were ready, but our hearts were not.

Heaven has gained the most beautiful angel to watch over us, guide us and protect us.

Ken/Dad/Papa/Brother/Uncle loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

Godspeed, good man, Godspeed.

Eulogy ~ 

Juanita, that was a beautiful tribute to your Uncle Ken.

I've known Ken for a long time, 45 years to be exact.

I'm fortunate to call Ken a dear friend and have got to know him as a family man ... but to truly get to see him through your eyes --- which I know is a reflection of the love felt by Jean, Debbie and all of your family and friends --- is a very special thing.

I want to share a perspective of Ken as a colleague, a community member, supporter, and leader.

Jean and Debbie, I think many of these stories will be familiar for you but I was thinking that for Ken's grandkids maybe this is a side of your grandpa you haven't had a chance to see.

Sometimes it's hard to imagine that the people we love exist outside of our existence, but the truth is Ken lived a very big life. In fact, one of the comments left on the memorial page said that Ken was a GIANT of a man, and I would have to agree.

Ken meant so much, to so many and I can only imagine under other circumstances you couldn't find a room in Lloydminster big enough to seat everyone whose lives were made better off from knowing Ken.

Having said that, he would think this was perfect. A room filled with the people he loved the most without a big fuss made over him, which we all know he did not like.

I met Ken when I started work at Nelson Lumber in 1975 where he had been working since 1966 and stayed for close to 30 years.

Nelson Lumber was a family run and oriented business and many of us were long timers and became very much like family.

Times were different then and people stayed at one place for big portions of their careers. I know it won't surprise any of you when I say Ken was the most loyal, dedicated and hardworking employee, period.

He worked his way up from a position in Sales to Transportation Manager and the Construction Manager, in each of these roles he was responsible for activities across western Canada.

I believe his construction experience served him well in his future role as a municipal leader: Indeed, through his whole career he was focused on building communities.

A few memories of our time at Nelson Lumber. First, and I say this with great affection, Ken was a bugger for the bottom line. He was always, and I mean always on budget and his division always made money. I learned a lot from Ken as I made my way up through the ranks and later worked alongside him on the management team.

On a lighter note, one of my fondest memories was when just the two of us went to the Home Show in Atlanta. This was a great opportunity for us to really get to know each other and become lifelong friends.

Now, I know what happens on the road should perhaps stay on the road, but I think Ken would forgive me if I tell these stories with the people he loved the most.

One night, we decided to go to a basketball game. The Atlanta Hawks were playing the Chicago Bulls and we were very excited to watch Michael Jordan play.

The only thing we didn't have was a ticket. I convinced Ken that we should scalp tickets which I can tell you he wasn't comfortable with.

Ken was as straight as an arrow. After walking around for a while, we paid $100 for each ticket without a clue how good or bad they were.

It turns out, we had court side seats, sitting right alongside the wives and girlfriends. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for both of us.

On our return trip, we had to arrive at the airport by 4 a.m. because security line ups were long due to the war in Kuwait. Not long after we arrived, maybe 4:30 Ken disappeared. Where was he going? Off to get a burger from a fast-food joint. I said Ken, what are you doing? Isn't it a little early for a greasy burger? Now this may be a bit offside, but Ken very colorfully told me he had to take a crap and needed a greasy burger to get his system moving before he got on the plane. These weren't the words he used.

Sorry kids but I did say might get a little different perspective on your grandpa. Here's why I tell this story. Ken was the most meticulous guy I know, he was organized, lined up and did things in a particular way. His schedule was going to be off and he needed to do what needed to be done. That was Ken.

I also got to know Ken through the Lloydminster Kinsmen Club. No surprise, Ken held a number of leadership positions in the club including a term as president in 1977 and on the SK district executive in 1980. Ken later joined the K40s and remained an active member of the service club.

The Kinsmen did a lot of good work in the city and in the province through fundraising events and volunteer activities, but we also had a lot of fun. I don't know if it's a Lloydminster or maybe just a guy thing but if you were in the Kinsmen you had a nickname. Ken's was the Fonz. Of course, the name came from his cool good looks.

I don't mind saying, Ken was a handsome devil, but he also became the guy other's turned to advice - kind of like the Fonz! This was not only at Kinsmen but also at Nelsons and later the City. Ken mentored many younger guys and inspired them to get involved and stay involved in community activities.

As you're starting to see, Ken stuck around. He worked at Nelsons for almost 30 years, participated in Kinsmen and K40 for 45 years and here's another one ... he was a member of the Busher's Club for 25 years. What's the Busher's Club? A group of guys who got together on weekdays for coffee at the Wayside Inn. I'm pretty sure he had a nickname there too.

While I don't know what it was, I was able to get some fun information.

What does it mean to bush for coffee? Basically, the guys created an elaborate game of guessing and elimination to determine who would pay for coffee. Let me tell you, there is some serious gamesmanship and even a few rituals involved. They keep statistics and everything.

Here are Ken's stats. After 25 years ending just last year, Ken had the highest attendance of any member. He attended 4,383 times AND had the most gold medals with 517. Pretty good right? Except the gold medalist had to pay for coffee.

In total, he bought more cups of coffee than anyone else, ever. 4,764 cups in total. Now that I see the meticulous records, they kept I know why these were Ken's people.

Despite these fun statistics, there's a bigger story behind this ritual of bushing for coffee.

Ken wasn't a political leader when he started going but after about 5 years in, he was first elected to council.

Coffee row isn't the easiest place for a politician to show his face. I've heard stories that he was given a hard time and often grilled on the issues of the day.

I've also been told, Ken never backed away. He always listened, was open to feedback and then respectfully explained why decisions were made ... and then he bought coffee.

Finally, let's talk about Ken as a community leader. For 20 years, Ken served Lloydminster, first as a member of City Council and then as Mayor. In fact, this last year he received a 20-year recognition from both the Urban Municipal Associations from both Alberta and Saskatchewan.

It was a thrill for me to see my good friend come into his own and bring together all of the skills and qualities from his career at Nelson Lumber and his involvement in the community to work in these important roles.

I do think this was his calling and he fulfilled his purpose with passion and principal. His focus was always on the impact City decisions would have on other people. I remember having heated discussions about taxes. Ken refused to raise taxes. Why? At the forefront of his mind and I would say his heart were the seniors and the less fortunate and the potential negative impact raising taxes would have on them.

He believed in this so strongly that the week before he passed away, he was lecturing current city council members about holding the line on taxes. I'm told the lecture contained some strong and colorful language!

What did I say, Ken was a bugger for the bottom line, but we all know there was more to the story. A more compassionate, conservative-minded person you've never met. Nor someone who cared so deeply for our community.

One of the memories that will remain etched on my heart from Ken's time as Mayor was the opening of the Vic Juba Theatre. This was an important project for Ken and Vic was an important mentor in his life. At the opening, I can tell you both Ken and Vic had tears in their eyes.

To me that is a sign of a man who cared deeply. But you don't need me to tell you that. You were all recipients of that deep caring and love.

I want to end by saying thank you. Thank you for allowing me to share my stories and perspective of your beloved husband, dad, grandpa, uncle and friend but more than that, thank you for sharing the gift of ken with our community.

Ken was a Giant. He was loyal, dedicated, hardworking, passionate, principled and a true community builder. He built a legacy that will not be forgotten and that didn't happen without the support and generosity of spirit of a family and friends around him who loved him and sacrificed their time with him for the greater good.

Know that as you move through this time of personal loss, you are surrounded by a grateful community and wide circle of friends who are here to support you and hold the memory of our dear friend, Ken Baker in our hearts.