Ken Richard Gosse

Ken was born in Regina, Saskatchewan in 1943 but spent the majority of his adult life in British Columbia. In 1962, at the young age of 19 he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy proudly serving his country as an able seaman in engineering trades until his honourable discharge in 1965. He then found his calling as a truck driver, a dedicated employee for Safeway, he worked relentlessly hard, provided for his family, and lived life in his own no-nonsense way, retiring at the age of 70.

Ken perfected the art of grumbling, but behind every eye-roll and sarcastic remark was a man with the biggest heart. His family and friends knew that his gruff exterior was simply his unique way of showing love—and if he teased you, it meant he cared. With his sharp wit, dry sense of humor, and knack for keeping everyone on their toes, Ken had a way of making ordinary moments memorable. Though the world may feel a little quieter without his trademark grumble, his spirit will live on in the humor, honesty, and maybe even the stubbornness he passed along to those who loved him.

Ken met Heather, his first love, married in 1974 and became an instant father of 5 which he embraced with open arms, adopting his son Robert and raised her children as his own. His love never faltered for Heather, a devoted husband by her side until she lost her battle to cancer in 1996. He met Elizabeth later that year and after a long courtship they married in 1998 and his family of stepchildren grew by 6 more and he couldn’t be more thrilled. He would do anything for his family, no questions, you just had to ask. His family continued to grow adding many grandchildren and great grandchildren over the years and he was always there for his large blended family in any way he could. A devoted husband to Elizabeth, with 23 beautiful years of marriage, was by her side until she succumbed to End Stage Renal Disease in 2021. He will forever be remembered an exemplary husband, mentoring the significance of partnership and unconditional love throughout the years showing his love not just in words, but through his presence, his support, and his unwavering care.

He leaves behind his brother Bob, sister Dianne, son Robert and stepchildren (Nil Heather) Sherry, Carl, Teresa and (Nil Elizabeth) Teresa, Brenda, Casey, Cozetta, Candace, and Joleine who will forever carry his love in their hearts.

Rest easy, Dad. We promise to keep the tradition of good-natured complaining alive in your honour.