KENNETH NEVILLE KIRK

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KENNETH NEVILLE KIRK June 3, 1930 - October 31, 2016 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, dad and grandpa. Peacefully, with family by his side, Kenneth Neville Kirk passed away on Monday, October 31, 2016, at the age of 86. His last days were spent at St. Boniface Hospital, where he received excellent care. During his final weeks he was surrounded by his loving family who enjoyed the opportunity to share humorous and heartfelt moments with him. Ken was predeceased by his parents and brother Den. Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife Carol, of 59 years; children: Kenny, Allyson (Ken Pushka), Dennis (Debra); grandchildren: Jillian (Nathan Bryce), Tanis (Steph Schroeter), Garrett, Lyndsay, Erik, Kayleigh, Nathan, Oliver; and great-grandchild Sienna; siblings: Annette, Dave (Rae) and many nieces and nephews. Ken's career was primarily in the trucking industry where he worked for several companies in sales and management, including Westank, Trailmobile and Fruehauf. His career began in Edmonton, and then took his family to Toronto, and finally Winnipeg. He participated actively in the Manitoba Trucking Association Rodeo for many years during his career. Dad was a dedicated father and loyal fan devoted to attending as many of the various sports activities enjoyed by his kids and grandkids. Everyone knew when "Grandpa" was in the building and he wasn't shy about letting everyone know who he was there to support. From his "Donald Duck" voice to his various comedic facial expressions, "Captain Kirk" was gifted in the art of putting smiles on people's faces, considering everyone he met to be a friend. He's given us the gift of a lifetime of wonderful memories. Dad enjoyed the daily crossword and the odd game of Scrabble or Upwords, particularly when he could throw in a word that no one else had ever heard of. He would wait with a smirk as we'd look it up to always find him right and then he would fill the room with his memorable laughter. It never got old for him. In his early days, he was an avid sportsman enjoying activities such as hockey, curling and golf. Most recently he enjoyed golfing and storytelling with his partners at the Canoe Club. Dad enjoyed exchanging stories /jokes with his brother Dave. The phone would ring and immediately it was clear by the banter who was on the other end. It was great entertainment to be listening in as they delivered jabs in fun at each other, usually over a losing sports team. Special thanks to Dr. MacMahon and the team at the Prostate Center, Dr. Permac and Scott, and the caregivers on 4AS and palliative care who kept Dad comfortable in his last days. In lieu of a service, at our father's request, the family will gather privately to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Canadian Cancer Society of Manitoba. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 05, 2016