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JOHN KENNETH SWANSTON
Born: Sep 15, 1942
Date of Passing: Oct 01, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJOHN KENNETH SWANSTON
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Kenneth (Ken) Swanston, who passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by his wife and two sons at his home in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Born in Winnipeg, Ken spent his life as a caring son, devoted husband, incredible father and a doting grandfather (Gaga).
Ken worked at Great-West Life (Canada Life) for 39 years and finished his career as Manager of Group Pension Administration and Retirement & Investment Services. Along the way, he picked up several career designations in the insurance industry.
Throughout his years at GWL, Ken was highly involved, playing 20 years on the Men’s Fastball Team, volunteering at charity events, and leading the Staff Club early on. It was through friends at GWL that he met the love of his life, Jennifer.
Ken was a lifelong athlete and sports enthusiast. In addition to fastball, he enjoyed curling and was an avid golfer, playing regularly with his GWL friends well into his late 70s.
Ken was always deeply involved in his sons’ lives, as a Cub and Scout leader, a hockey and baseball coach, and an ever-present head of the family. With him, we always felt secure. Family meant a great deal to Ken. A keen genealogist, he traced his family’s history back many generations, to the 1400s, and was always happy to share the famous names our family is connected to, as well as his direct lineage to the United Empire Loyalists.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Jennifer; his two sons, Colin (Joanne) and Craig (Wendy); and his granddaughter Kensleigh, who brought him endless joy. He is also survived by his sister, Judy, and many extended family members and dear friends from GWL, the Westwood neighbourhood and sports. He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Caroline.
Ken's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Sturgeon 1 and the medical staff who supported him with kindness and compassion.
A celebration of Ken's life will be held next summer to allow time for out of town family to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ken's memory may be made to The Movement Disorder Clinic c/o the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation.
Ken (Kenny, Boo, Swanny) will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 17, 2026
Condolences & Memories (7 entries)
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I was fortunate to work directly with Ken for 15 years of my 25+ years at GWL. His wisdom and tutelage were responsible for my rewarding and successful carrier. Thanks to Ken I am now a wealthy, retired member of society. - Posted by: Doug Gillis (Friend) on: Oct 28, 2026
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My condolences to the family, I worked with Ken at GWL for many years and in retirement winters would see him and his buddies at the golf dome. Really nice fellow and a great sense of humor. Ray Elliott. - Posted by: Ray Elliott (Friend) on: Oct 23, 2026
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Sending sincere condolences on Ken’s passing to Jen, Colin, Craig and the families. Ken “ Swanny” was an important part of my husband Clare’s fastball team in the 1960’s and 1970’s: fun years! Ken is fondly remembered. - Posted by: Esther McKenty (Friend) on: Oct 19, 2026
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Alice and I are saddened to learn about Ken's passing. We are sending sincere condolences to Jennifer and family. I have great memories of "Swanny" meeting him when I was an eighteen year old and joining the GWL Fastball Team. I will always remember the fun times after the games - sometimes in "Swanny's" basement late into the night - thanks for the memories Swanny! Allan and Alice Wiebe - Posted by: Allan J Wiebe (Friend) on: Oct 17, 2026
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Jennifer, Colin, and Craig. So sorry to hear of Ken's passing. I understand he was not well. He lived a wonderful life with you and your family. Our time at GWL is forever in my memory and I'm sure in yours too. Football games with Don at centre field 30 rows up, Friday nights at the pub. So many memories. I'll try to get there next summer when you have a celebration of life for Swanee. Til then, take care, all of you. - Posted by: Tom Rooke (Old friend) on: Oct 17, 2026
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Heartfelt thoughts to Family Swanston. What a wonderful tribute and photo of Ken. His great grin will always be remembered. Cherish your many memories. - Posted by: Lynn Checkley (GWL) on: Oct 17, 2026
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Ken and I worked together at Great Wheat. He was a wonderful friend and I have many wonderful memories. Please accept my sincere condolences, Jen, Craig and Colin. Ken was a wonderful person and one that will be missed greatly. - Posted by: Glenn Chudley (Friend and work mate) on: Oct 17, 2026