We are saddened to announce the passing of our father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Ken Toovey on April 15, 2025.
Ken was 97 years old and lived a wonderful life. He leaves behind his children, Jim (Willa), Lois, and Glenn (Tricia); his grandchildren Diana, Brandon (Jill), Spencer (Erin), Catherine (Sean) and Ashton (Nikki); and great grandchildren Watson, Sullivan, Emerson, Stella, Grady, Thatcher and Findlay. Ken was predeceased by his wife, Olive, and his brothers Harold, Ron and Don.
Growing up in Minnedosa, Ken learned tin smithing from his father. When he was 16, during the war, there were no men available to work, so he started work on the CPR working in the shops for 32 ¾ cents per hour. He spoke often of the steam engine days, feeding the coal fired engines and then driving the engines at 25 years old. No matter how cold it was, you were always warm in the engine. He fondly remembered names and stories of the men he worked with and learned from at that time. After 43 years of service Ken retired and thought he did well with 39 years of retirement.
Ken married Olive in 1952 and they moved to Kenora, raising a family of three. He worked hard all his life but he also enjoyed getting together with family and friends especially at their camp at Hawk Lake. Their children and grandchildren came to love the lake and being there with them. Ken always gave a helping hand when there was a project. Many friends as well as our family have benefited from his help over the years.
Our family extends our gratitude to the hospital staff and paramedics for their care and concern. A Celebration of Ken’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Lake of the Woods District Hospital.