KENNETH MCILWAIN

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KENNETH MCILWAIN Kenneth McIlwain died April 7, 2006 at Hamiota Health Centre Birch Lodge with his wife and daughter by his side and the sound of a favourite Beethoven symphony filling the room. Ken was born in India on October 12, 1922, and grew up in Liverpool, England. In 1955, with his wife and three children, he immigrated to Winnipeg. He was a skilled upholsterer, but it was in his ability to empathize and work with others less fortunate that he excelled. For a number of years he worked as a volunteer helping men recently released from prison adjust to life on the outside. In the latter years of his working career he was part of the Human Resources Opportunity Centre, helping disadvantaged young people learn the skills necessary to enter the workforce. A favourite pastime involved Ken's love of flowers - from propagating his own seedlings to tending his flower beds and spending many a Sunday afternoon at Winnipeg parks viewing the floral displays with his family. Ken adored his children, spending hours playing imaginative games with them, involving them in his hobbies, encouraging them to develop their own talents, and sharing his love of music with them all. As time passed, his grandchildren became a focus, and for 20 years they laughed and played with cousins at the cottage on Wavey Creek north of Winnipeg. Upon his retirement, Ken discovered a hidden talent and became passionate about painting. Many of his works have been given to family and friends - a lasting memento of an incredible man. Ken and his wife moved out to Kenton, MB to be closer to their daughter in 1996. The family would like to extend their deep appreciation to the staff at Birch Lodge for their loving care after health issues prompted Ken's move there in 2002. Ken is survived by his wife Lilian; sons, Alan (Donna) and Raymond (Moira); daughter Irene (Brian Todd); daughter-in-law Heidi; along with 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your own choice in Ken's memory. A private family memorial was held on April 18.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 29, 2006