BAKER, Koën James Baker

Koën was born in Cambridge, Ontario, raised in the neighbouring region of Kitchener-Waterloo and later, Kelowna, BC. He came into this world as a beautiful boy who immediately said “Yes” to life. He loved laughter – especially other people’s. No stranger was ever unworthy of his help or a conversation. The attention he gave you was everyday love. He was impossible to stay mad at.

His natural talent for soccer (football) was applied through hard work and inspired by his love for the game and its form – the outcome was art for us to enjoy. He played for Kelowna’s OFC (formerly Soccaskool), where he grew, was appreciated, and was treated like family.

Koën was loved deeply and unconditionally by his parents, Heather and Nathan. He was a brother to Søren and Thijs, whom he had always nurtured and protected. His pride and devotion to them was unwavering. Thijs was a best friend to him. Søren was always in his arms or on his back when his brother was near.

His heart burned for Lily Cooper – she was his person, his home. Gibson was a rock to him, and they shared the highest loyalty with one another.

He is survived by his father, Nathan (Kristen); mother, Heather (Chad); and brothers Mathijsen and Søren; stepsiblings Jayden, Kylanna, Nate, and Wyatt; girlfriend of 3 years, Lily Cooper; grandparents Kathy, Ralph, Ingrid, Ray, Mark, Janet, Barb, and Terry; and uncles Kyle, Jeff, and Ryan. He was predeceased by his great-grandparents.

Koën James Baker will live on through his brothers, his parents, Lily, grandparents, step-siblings, family and friends as a deeply felt, indelible memory of pure love and joy.

A Memorial Service will be held on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM (PST) at Kelowna Christian Center, 905 Badke Road, Kelowna, BC. 

If you would like to attend Koën’s Memorial Service, CLICK HERE TO RSVP

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Okanagan FC (OFC), okanaganfc.com, a soccer club that was central to Koën’s life, and continues to nurture and inspire kids in Kelowna. A direct link to a donations page can be found here: The Koën Baker Memorial Fund. We know that this is what Koën would have wanted.