Kenneth "Ken" Raymond Howard

Kenneth Raymond Howard, known as Ken to his friends and family, passed away unexpectedly on July 4, 2024 at Huntsville Memorial Hospital at the age of 78.  Ken's life was marked by his unwavering devotion to his loved ones, his passion for life, and his kind-hearted nature.

Ken's life was enriched by his loving wife of 54 years, Audrey, with whom he built a beautiful family. He was a proud father to Anita Howard-Paton (Chris McMichael), and Timothy Howard (Holly). Ken's joy was multiplied as he became Grandpa to Josh, Abby, Olivia, Sydney, Oliver, and Arabelle.  Ken’s nieces and nephews also held  special places in his heart.  Born to Jack and Edna Howard of Norfolk, England, Ken was a cherished brother to Doris Risden (late Willie) Late, Terry Howard(Kerry) and Brian Howard (Wendy). He was predeceased by his parents and his parents-in-law, Elke and Anna DeBoer.

Ken spent the majority of his career operating Olmstead Farm Supplies, where his reliability and warm personality made him a favourite among clients and colleagues. Later, he transitioned into a successful 30-year tenure as an insurance agent, where his honesty and kindness earned him the trust and friendship of many. Even in retirement, Ken remained active and engaged. He found great pleasure in driving for YFM, where he could combine his love of people with serving his community.

A man of many talents, Ken was also an accomplished woodworker. His skillful hands crafted beautiful charcuterie and cutting boards that he sold, sharing a piece of his artistry with others. Ken's creative spirit was further expressed through his love of music. He found solace and joy in playing the guitar, a pastime that brought comfort and entertainment to both him and those lucky enough to listen.

An avid sports fan, Ken's loyalty to the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays was unwavering. Ken's love for sports extended to his grandchildren's activities, where he was a constant presence, offering support and encouragement from the sidelines.

Above all, Ken was a family man. His love for his family was the cornerstone of his life. He was a loving husband, a supportive father, a doting grandfather, and a dependable brother. Ken's kindness touched the lives of everyone he met, and his handy nature meant he was always there to lend a helping hand.

Friends will be received at the Brock and Visser Funeral Home on Monday, July 8 from 6-8pm.  Memorial service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, July 9 at 11am, with a celebration of life to follow from 12-2 at the funeral home.

For those who wish, donations in Ken’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Woodstock Hospital Foundation or to the Huntsville Memorial Hospital, where Ken received wonderful care in his last days.