March 13, 2023
In loving memory ~
Ken Schmidt died peacefully on March 13 surrounded by people he loved, nearly two weeks shy of his 80th birthday.
Ken was born in Drake Saskatchewan in 1943, the youngest boy and second youngest of twelve children of Abe and Emma Schmidt. Ken, often called "Kenny" in his younger years, was a rambunctious child with lots of friends with whom he enjoyed playing hockey and hunting.
As a young man, Ken knew what kind of a life he wanted and moved to BC in 1965 to follow his dreams. He married Gladys (nee Heinrichs) in 1966. They moved to England Road in Courtenay in 1971 where he became a fixture, often affectionately called the "Mayor of England Road".
In addition to his career as an electrician for BC Ferries, he had a keen eye for a deal, and together with partner Bill Jackson, built a successful property development business. Ken was a "people person" and loved hunting and fishing with his many friends and his two grandchildren, of whom he was especially proud.
He was a good friend and will be missed by many. He is survived by wife Gladys, daughters Tracee (Ken) and Rhonda (Troy) and grandsons Bradyn and Cole, as well as siblings Lorna (Laverne), Harry (Diana), and Gordy.
He wished that his family thank the many health care professionals who provided compassionate care for him, particularly Dr. Swanson.
A celebration of life will be held April 22 at the Curling Centre at 4835 Headquarters Rd. Doors open at 2:00 pm. Service to start at 2:30. If you wish to write a message, please go to https://www.comoxvalleyrecord.com/obituaries/. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Ken's name to the ALS Society of BC [https://www.alsbc.ca/donate/].
Service Details
2:00 PM