Randal Keith Ponton

Randy Keith Ponton was born in Kenora, Ontario, on May 16, 1956.

He was predeceased by his parents, Ida and Leslie Ponton; his brother Wayne and his sister-in-law Shirley, in 2006; sister-in-law Linda Ponton, in 2024; and his sister Sheryl Robinson, in 2025.

He is survived by his brother Larry Ponton and sister-in-law Bonnie Ponton; his brother Bruce Ponton; brother-in-law Jim Robinson; and numerous nieces and nephews. He fostered many children over the years and loved every one of them as if they were his own. Among those who held a special place in his heart were his pride and joy: Kris Christiansen, Troy Dokuchie, Chayce Kolyn, and Marc Creason.

In his early years, he was very involved in Scouts. At 16, as a Venturer, he helped run the 6th Kenora troop at the Rabbit Lake Scout Shack. He continued his involvement in Scouts for decades, organizing and leading troops on amazing adventures across North America. Randy was a very skilled person, working in a few trades alongside his brothers, Larry and Wayne, before finally settling on autobody work. After working in the trades for a few years, his passion for helping others led him back to university. In Regina, he obtained his Social Work degree, working part-time in a group home while pursuing his studies. Upon returning to Kenora, he joined the Kenora Board of Education as an attendance counsellor, helping many students over the course of his career. After retiring from the school board, he was offered a position at Lake of the Woods District Hospital as a mental health therapist, where he worked until his passing.

Randy had unmatched strength, courage, resilience and determination. He truly was one of a kind, with the biggest heart. He will be sadly missed by many people.

His family would like to sincerely thank all the staff at Lake of The Woods District Hospital for the care Randy received while in their care.

His celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

In honor of Randy, any donations made to a charity centered around youth, would be greatly appreciated.