Peacefully, surrounded by family, at Stedman Community Hospice on December 22, 2025, in his 71st year.
Born May 5, 1955, Ken was the dear best friend and husband of 45 years to Karen Harper and proud, loving father to daughters Kristen (Brian) and Kimberley (Zach). He was a devoted grandfather to his treasured granddaughters, Lianna, Gemma, Clara and Norah, who brought him endless joy. He will also be lovingly remembered by his brothers Cliff and Greg (Bonnie), mother-in-law, Connie Wilks, brothers-in-law, Barry Wilks (Betty) and Jim (Sandra) Wilks, as well as his many nieces and nephews. Ken was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Rose Harper, sister Nancy Richardson and father-in-law, Grant Wilks.
Ken had a great sense of humor and could always be counted on for a good laugh through his well-timed “Harper humour”. In his younger years, Ken took great pride in his hobby car, a 1968 Camaro, and demonstrated his dedication to martial arts, earning his black belt and becoming a Tae Kwon Do instructor. He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—gardening and landscaping, woodworking, road trips on his Honda Goldwing with Karen, family time at the cottage and the backyard pool, and spending time with his close friends. Employed first at White Farm Equipment, then Kester Solder, Ken later re-skilled into Horticulture which led him to his work with Hydro One as an Arborist until his retirement in 2020. A true believer in man’s best friend, Ken shared his life with a succession of beloved dogs and cats over the years, most recently his loyal dog, Tucker, who was never far from his side. Above all else, Ken cherished time with his family, especially his granddaughters, who were truly the light of his life.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate teams who supported Ken throughout his journey. Sincere thanks to Ontario Health at Home—especially nurse Chantalle, Dr. Montour, and Jeanette—for their dedicated care and support prior to his time at Stedman. The family is also deeply grateful to the staff at Stedman Community Hospice, where Ken truly enjoyed the kindness, compassion, and exceptional care shown by the nurses and caregivers to both him and his family. During his time at Stedman, Ken especially cherished the many visits from close family and friends which brought him comfort, laughter, and kept his spirits lighter. He never gave up hope of getting better.
Cremation has taken place. Friends and family will be received at the McCleister Funeral Home, 495 Park Rd N, Brantford on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 11a.m. to 12p.m. with a memorial service to follow in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken’s memory to Stedman Community Hospice or the Cancer Assistance Program (Hamilton). Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at mccleisterfuneralhome.ca McCleister: (519) 758-1553
