Kenneth Donald Jakie Heidel

Ken had a lengthy battle with health challenges since suffering from a heart attack in 2018. Though he was in and out of hospital since 2018, Ken faced his struggles with resilience and a high spirit, always bouncing back.

On May 13, 2026, Ken spent 3 weeks in Kelowna hospital battling seizures, then a stroke. This was a battle he couldn't win.

For the last 3 years, Ken resided at Orchard Gardens in Kelowna. He truly loved it there. Ken loved the community and made very special friends. Ken formed a deep bond with all the staff and care aids, who treated him with immense kindness, care and dignity. Often, I would be in his room with him, when his nurse came in and gave Ken a hug and just dropped in to chat with him.

Ken was a remarkably kind person, who loved everyone he met. He had a gentle nature and a special affection for dogs, sadly missing his own dog, Jake, who passed in 2022.

He will be fondly remembered by many for his special bond with Ceejay, a Yorkshire Terrier (belonging to Matt, who was also a special friend), whom he loved to babysit. When Ken had Ceejay, his heart was full. He loved to take him outside to show him off.

Ken is survived by his loving family, sister, Myrna (Gary), Eva (Ed), Jo-Ann, brother Garry (Leslie), and his two children, Stacey and Kenny, along with many nieces and nephews. A special mention of niece, Shauna, who loved Ken deeply and she always called him Uncle Kenny.

From the bottom of our hearts, the family would like to thank the staff at Kelowna General Hospital for all their kindness and care they provided Ken during his stays. Ken always praised the hospital staff.

Even though it breaks our hearts to let him go, we know his suffering has ended.