Mr. Kenneth KR Ronald Elliott

      “Anything is possible.” That is what Mr. Kenneth Ronald Elliott believed about life. He was a creative man, a perpetual inventor, who seemed to be able to find a solution for any difficulty confronting him. He had faith in his ability to find those solutions. KR thoroughly enjoyed understanding how things worked. He possessed an inquisitive, confident, and rational nature matched with a versatile and agile mind. KR was a person who believed that he could achieve whatever he set out to do.

       His parents were Charley & Marjorie. KR was raised in hamilton & st catherines. He showed his ingenuity even as a child. When he was confronted with a problem, KR could develop an imaginative solution, and he derived satisfaction from knowing he had that ability.

      This same talent for finding solutions had a positive bearing on KR's family relationships. KR was raised with one sibling. Older brother Edward. When a difficult situation or dilemma arose within the family, KR was always there to help figure out a solution for making things work.

      As a young boy KR took part in hockey & lacrosse.

      Endowed with an appetite for knowing how his world worked. The teacher he enjoyed learning from the most was Mary Moffit, grade 7, who was a friend for life. Remembered for defending a girl with a broken leg (from a male teacher), which ended his high school carreer in grade 9.

      KR was socially resourceful, an expressive person who was willing to try new things. These qualities drew a lively circle of friends around him. Always interested in his friends’ activities and interests. He was sought after by people who recognized that he was generous with his time and energy, and these same friends found KR to be very stimulating company. KR's humor and curiosity were contagious for those around him. Cousin Don Hancock, Ron Baker,. Later in life, he became friends with Dr. John Alexander Johnston, Reginald Leigh Fisher, Jack Leitch, Ian Fielding & Rudy Denninger.

      On May 24, 1952 KR exchanged wedding vows with Daisy June Elliott at Livingston United Church of Hamilton, On. KR was adept at devising original and creative ways to enhance and improve the marriage partnership. KR was able to bring out the best in others. KR was an entertaining conversationalist who was quick to respond to his spouse’s needs. He was a vibrant personality and he enjoyed verbally sparring with June. In fact, those who knew him often remarked that KR loved to argue for argument’s sake. He was very perceptive in recognizing others’ feelings, especially regarding June's.

      KR's remarkable talent for being inventive influenced his relationship with his children. KR was blessed with two children, wayne & lori. Someone who was quick to laugh, KR found it easy to spend lots of time with his children, but he was never overbearing or guilty of pushing himself on them.

      As a born inventor, KR was definitely in his element in his work place. He could easily create new and innovative systems, and incorporate those changes to bring a fresh approach to any work situation. KR was a focused worker with a strong drive for achievement. He could assess all of the options before him and, using his analytical skills, could comfortably find answers that no one else had even considered. His personal initiative inspired those around him. KR was always good at getting a project started and then, at the appropriate time, handing it on to a colleague. Ship chandler, Restauranteur, Harbour Commisioner, Industrial Commisioner, Shipbreaker, Scrap metal merchant, philanthropist. KR always made an effort to be a team player, doing what needed was necessary in order to get the job done.

      KR's passion for finding a better way to do things was often an end in itself for him. In fact, that interest by itself became something of a hobby for this perpetual problem solver. Since KR was always searching for new and unusual activities, he developed many interests and leisure pursuits. Some of the things he became an “expert” in might come as a surprise to those who knew him, but most friends and family understood that KR simply couldn’t be limited to just a few activities or ideas. His favorite pursuits were watching grandsons sports activities, horse racing & philanthropy.

      KR's demeanor and eternally positive outlook served him well in sports. KR played hockey & Lacrosse. Recreational sports included swimming, boating & diving. KR was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were football & any sports involving his children or grandchildren.

      KR's talents were well suited for being actively involved in professional and community organizations, something he did throughout his life. He enjoyed being involved and was willing to jump in and help out in most any situation. KR could bring a breath of fresh air to any organization, simply by introducing his novel ideas and problem solving strategies. Throughout his later years, KR was an active member of the Shrine. & Philos Club.

      KR was continually concerned with the status of local, national and even world affairs. His keen interest and strong values led him to become active in his community. Politically, KR was a supporter of Governor Tom Ridge of Pennsylvania & supported various politicians from both Liberal & Conservative parties in Canada.

      Faith and religion were important to KR. He was a member of the MacNab St Presbyterian Church. Dr. John Johnston was the family pastor for over 50 yrs. During that time, he was on various committees incl finance.

      Having the opportunity to visit and explore a new place always intrigued KR. Traveling and going away on vacations offered yet another opportunity for KR to expand his ever-growing inventory of knowledge. Favorite vacations included his family & KR had many with his grandsons & children. KR travelled the world extensively.

      KR was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. KR's favorites were King, Queen, Duke ( german shepherd's) Andy ( miniature poodle) & Lady a small white mix breed. They were best friends for 12 years.

      Even while in retirement, KR never stopped exercising his inventive talents, and this new phase of his life provided new opportunities for stimulating his interests. In from his full time work, at age 45, his new life involved relocating to Florida, which had been his favorite part time home for years. In retirement, he found new pleasure in philanthropy. Even in retirement, KR continued to stay in touch with his old friends and while making plenty of new acquaintances. He was active in the community and felt fulfilled.

      KR passed away on August 28, 2009 at Hamilton General Hospital. KR fought a very brave battle against lung cancer. He is survived by his children & grandchildren. Services were held at J B Marlatt Funeral Home. KR was laid to rest in Hamilton Cemetary, with his parents, Rita & Pranita.

      During his lifetime, nothing appeared impossible to KR. He met the words “it can’t be done” with the enthusiastic challenge of a “wanna bet” attitude. KR was able to recognize the possibilities a new idea held, even when those around him could not. For KR, the traditional way of doing things fell short of his expectations, especially if there were original and untested methods for handling a challenge. For Mr. Kenneth Ronald Elliott, the fun of living his life could be found in the challenge.