~ In Loving Memory ~

Ken Wilhelm passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, in Nanaimo, BC, at the age of 86.

Born on June 18, 1939, in Calgary, AB, Ken was the devoted husband of Loraine Wilhelm and a loving father to Kathy Kinley (Bill), Dan Wilhelm (Trinity), and Mic Wilhelm (Tami). He was a proud grandfather, uncle to many nieces and nephews, and deeply loved by all who knew him ♥️

Ken attended school in Calgary, but his true passion was driving trucks. He began at just nine years old, moving trucks around on the property of his dad's trucking company, and later—once legal—drove everything from single semis to triple trailers for MacDonald Consolidated (Safeway), travelling throughout Alberta and BC. All three of his children were born in Calgary, and he was an amazing dad.

Winter meant a backyard skating rink for hockey (with the occasional black eyes from flying sticks!) and figure skating. Summers were filled with football games in the backyard with all the neighbourhood kids. Family summer holidays were spent making memories at Mara Lake in Sicamous, BC.

In 1974, the family moved to Mackenzie, BC, where Ken partnered with his brother Don at a Shell Service Station and later worked at the Mackenzie Pulp Mill in the Stores Department.

In 1980, Ken and Loraine moved to Parksville, BC, where they became the proud owner/operators of Suds & Duds Laundromat in Pioneer Plaza for nine years. Ken later worked as a rural mail carrier with Canada Post, and eventually as a maintenance worker at the Rod and Gun in Parksville, until his stroke in 2000 left him unable to work.

"Coach" Ken was deeply involved with minor hockey in both Mackenzie and Parksville, coaching his sons and many other players for years. After retiring from coaching, Ken and Loraine travelled extensively across Vancouver Island and the mainland to cheer on their grandsons at hockey games, and made many trips to Revelstoke to support their granddaughters at volleyball and soccer games. Family was always at the centre of Ken's life.

In his earlier years, Ken enjoyed reading novels, mechanics, woodworking, and playing cards—especially crib and rummy. Many of the wishing wells he built over 25 years ago are still standing today; when Ken built something, it was built to last… even if it ended up a bit heavy!

Ken was a hardworking, strong, sometimes stubborn, and resilient man who defied many medical challenges throughout his life. With his loving and faithful Loraine by his side, together their strength and love persevered through every medical setback.

An avid sports fan, Ken loved hockey and football at all levels. He had the gift of the gab until his stroke in 2000 limited his communication—but he never lost his sense of humour. He always found a way to tease and have fun, creating many nicknames and his own unique version of language that has been passed down through generations.

Ken is now reunited with his granddaughter Nicole. They have some catching up to do—sharing work stories, joking, and creating funny nicknames together once again ♥️

May he rest in peace.

Ken's family extends heartfelt thanks to the many medical support staff who cared for him over the years, and especially to the staff at Dufferin Place Care Home for keeping him comfortable and well cared for in his final months.

A private family gathering to celebrate Ken's life will be held in the spring.