It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of Ken Amundson of Blairmore, AB on June 16, 2016 at the Crowsnest Pass Continuing Care Centre. He was 71 years of age.
Ken was born on December 20, 1944 in Lethbridge, AB and he grew up to be a fine young man with a strong work ethic. In 1964, he met the love of his life, Diane Gorzitza. The happy couple married on July 10, 1965 and was later blessed with two beautiful daughters. They moved their family to the Crowsnest Pass in 1969.
Ken loved adventure and all sports. He raced stock cars in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and played slow pitch, broomball and hockey with his buddies. He was also an avid hunter and lived for his annual trip to the Dutch Creek hunting camp where he enjoyed rousing music sessions by the “Dutch Creek Symphony” and a good time was had by all. Ken worked most of his life as a heavy equipment operator; first in the construction industry and later at the coalmines. He retired from Elkview Coal in 2009. Above all else, Ken treasured his family, and he worked tirelessly to provide for them. His dedication and kind, loving spirit will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life is his devoted wife of almost 51 years, Diane; his loving daughters, Bonnie (Doug) Kawasaki and Shelley Drake; his precious grandchildren, Megan Drake, Brian Drake and Cole Amundson; his sister, Carol (Ron) Charlesworth; his brothers-in-law, Gary Bishop, Ron (Olive) Gorzitza, Alfred (Linda) Gorzitza and Paul Fellger; several nieces, nephews and cousins; as well as the many good friends he made throughout his life.
He was predeceased by his parents, Henry “Hank” and Jurdis Amundson; his younger sister, Linda Bishop; his father-in-law, Adolph “Boots” Gorzitza; his mother-in-law, Lillian Gorzitza; and his sister-in-law, Linda Fellger.
The Memorial Service honoring Ken’s life will be held at the MDM Community Centre (2802 – 222 St., Bellevue, AB) on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 at 2:00pm. Memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the CNP Health Foundation “Continuing Care” (P. O. Box 455, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0), or STARS Air Ambulance (1441 – Aviation Park NE, P. O. Box 570, Calgary, AB T2E 8M7). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements.
(403) 562-8555