Ken passed away on November 6, 2020 in Winnipeg. He will be missed by his three sons, Ken (Alison), Michael and Donnie, his six grandchildren, and his siblings Jean (Dale) McKenzie, Dave (Carol) Guilford, Don (Diane) Guilford, Diane Guilford, Robert (Minnie) Guilford and many nieces and nephews. Ken is predeceased by his parents, Frank and Kae Guilford and his niece, Cynthia Mayo. 

 

Ken really appreciated growing up on the farm and being part of the community of Clearwater, which he always considered his home town. He loved family gatherings and returning to Clearwater for July 1st Ball Tournament and other special events. Ken never tired of hearing stories of the family and happenings in Clearwater. He worked for the bank for a time after graduating from school, then worked at different stations for the CN Railway.  Later he lived in Winnipeg and worked for many years at Versatile Farm Machinery where he became a superintendent. He spent his later years working as a security guard. 

 

Ken liked to live life to the fullest and he loved talking to people. He would strike up a conversation with anyone, and Ken would soon count them as a friend. He had a generous heart and always wanted to help people. He had special compassion for the less fortunate. Ken volunteered for many organizations but significant were the Garden Grove Elementary School that his sons attended where he listened to children reading; Shaughnessy United Church, Boy Scouts, Junior Chamber of Commerce, Neighbourhood Watch, Variety the Children’s Charity of Manitoba, NDP, Blue Bomber Football and many more.

 

Ken was diagnosed as Bipolar in his late forties, and he was not ashamed to let people know. Ken went through some very difficult times with his mental health. He was so grateful to have his son, Ken, alongside loving him, encouraging him and being a great advocate for his Dad. Ken’s health deteriorated in his late sixties and he needed a great deal of care. In 2016 he was admitted to Maples Personal Care Home. The staff was good to Ken, he developed good relationships with them, and was always content to be there. Ken never lost his sense of humour and he loved to tease and get a chuckle from the caregivers. 

 

Ken was loved deeply by his children and his siblings and he will always be in our hearts. The last few years Ken was grateful to be prayed for as it gave him a sense of peace and love. The family will miss him and are grateful that he is now surrounded by peace and love always.  The celebration of Ken’s life will take place at a later time.

 

Ken worked hard fundraising for different worthwhile organizations, so if you wished to honour him please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

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Friends and relatives are encouraged to share stories and condolences by commenting in the comment section.