After a life well-lived, Ken passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, August 1st, 2025 at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, one day after his 93rd birthday.
Born in Mersea Township, Ontario on July 31, 1932, Ken was the son of the late William (Bill) & Edith Emmaretta (nee Willan) Tetzlaff.
He is reunited with his wife of 66 years, Barbara Ann (nee Drummond, 2019). Dear father to Todd (Darlene) and Terry of Chatham-Kent. Sadly missed by grandchildren, Rachel Blonde (Greg), Amanda Tetzlaff (Connor Critchfield) and William (Demetria) Tetzlaff. Proud great-grandfather (“Papa”) to Norah Blonde & Lochlan Tetzlaff.
Predeceased by his brother, James Wilbur Tetzlaff (2000) and sister-in-law Cleva (1998). Survived by sisters-in-law Bernice (Ed) Woelk and Lavoine (late Robert) Patchett all of Leamington. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family and his dear friends and neighbors.
Ken was a Class “A” licensed mechanic and worked with his father at Tetzlaff Auto Service in Blytheswood. He later worked at Laidlaw Transport, Elan Tool & Die, and Russell Tool & Die. He was passionate about racing, mechanics, and moose hunting. In 2005, he proudly served as crew chief for a race in Mexico, “La Carrera Panamericana”.
A graveside service will take place on Tuesday, August 12th, 2025 at 11:00 am at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham. A Celebration of Ken’s Life will follow at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm with Words of Remembrance at 1:30 pm.
Donations in memory of Ken may be made to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at McKinlay Funeral Home.
