Ken was born in Manchester, England, in 1929 to John Thomas and Rosa Jamieson.
A gifted artist from an early age, Ken received a scholarship to attend the Manchester School of Art. After two years, his studies were interrupted when he was called to serve for two years in the Royal Air Force in the years following World War II.
At the age of 23, Ken spread his wings and left England for Toronto, Canada, beginning a new chapter in what would become a life filled with adventure. He later made his way to the United States, where he built his career, raised his family, and made his home.
Ken enjoyed a long and accomplished career with George P. Johnson Co., where he served as Vice President and Design Director. For 38 years, he designed and supervised exhibits and displays for major events throughout North America, combining his artistic talent, creativity, and remarkable attention to detail. He retired in 1994.
Art and creativity remained an important part of Ken’s life. He loved painting and found great satisfaction in making, building, and mending things with his own hands. There seemed to be very little he could not fix, and he became well known among family and friends for his many D.I.Y. projects and his abilities as a gifted handyman.
Ken also had a lifelong sense of adventure. He loved hunting, camping, traveling, and sailing the open waters whenever he could. As a young man, he belonged to the Canadian Youth Hostels, traveling extensively and experiencing the world at a time when doing so required a healthy measure of courage and independence. That adventurous spirit remained with him throughout his life—a reflection of the quiet confidence, curiosity, and determination with which he approached the world.
Above all, Ken treasured his family. He married the love of his life, Mary, and together they shared 52 loving and happy years of marriage.
He was the beloved father of Linda (Grant) Jacobs and John (Laurie) Jamieson; cherished grandfather of Michele (Corin) Nisly and Andrew (Kate MacInnis) Jamieson; and proud great-grandfather of Raeden and Ember Nisly. Ken was preceded in death by his wife, parents and siblings.
Ken will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his kind heart, his faith in God, his wonderful sense of humor, and the calm and thoughtful presence he brought to those around him. Whether offering advice, lending a hand, sharing a story, or simply spending time with those he loved, Ken had a way of making his presence quietly meaningful.
His was a long life, well lived—a life shaped by creativity, adventure, hard work, faith, and, most importantly, love of family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Ken’s memory may be made to the Trinity Episcopal Church Memorial Garden in St. Clair Shores.
Funeral services will take place on September 23, 2026, at 11:00 am (gathering at 10:30 am), at Trinity Episcopal Church, 30205 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores, Michigan 48082.
Ken will be laid to rest at the Trinity Episcopal Church Memorial Garden at a future date.
