Inducted April 2009 Nominated by: Murray Pearson
Ken and his wife Jackie wanted to curl; it was their passion. Ken was responsible for securing and organizing the work crews required to build the Huntley Curling Club and in 1980, he helped lay the concrete foundation for the club. Jackie made sandwiches and coffee, and she kept the crews working.
Until 2008, Ken actively curled in the mixed and men’s leagues, locally and provincially. Ken broke his leg in 2004, but it was when he broke his second leg in 2008 that his curling days came to an end.
In his own words:
“The reason I love curling so much is that it is an intriguing mental game, there is so much to think about. Curling is also highly competitive. I like that.
Curling is the thread that ties the community together… we had a house fire and lost everything. It was the members of the curling community that helped us through that difficult time… they were unbelievable.
At the club, I became known for my Stetson… I always curled wearing my Stetson. Over the years, I collected pins from various rinks and bonspiels. These pins decorated my hat… this hat is very special to me.”
Ken and Jackie were heavily involved in the Scottish tours. In 1988 and 1992, they help host Scotland’s Lord Elgin teams and in 1990 and 1998, they were on the team that represented the Huntley Curling Club in Scotland against the Scottish teams. Ken speaks fondly of the time spent with Lord Elgin and Lady Victoria…and the Stetson.
Ken spent many hours teaching beginners and novice curlers the intricacies of the game. He willingly helped anyone with their delivery and took pride in teaching the newcomers the art of falling.
During special club events, Ken enjoyed his time helping out in the kitchen.
What others say about Ken:
“Ken curled with me for quite a few years, and we had our share of success. He was always very serious and competitive…a great asset to the team.”
“Ken enjoyed a good party…we had some wonderful times.”
Ken enjoys an active lifestyle, and golfing is one of his favourite pastimes.
Ken’s Advice? “Get involved.”
Approved By:
Past President: Stuart Given
Past President: Lorne Rice
President: Cathy Shane