April 13, 2002
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Galatians 5:22 & 23
Ken was born in Vernon, B.C. on December 16, 1957 and was brought to Smithers six months later as the first and much loved son of Harke and Sophie VanderMeulen. Ken grew up on the farm and it was there that he learned his love of the outdoors and animals. It was within this warm and loving environment that the love for his family and Saviour grew. Ken’s journey through life was guided by his personal relationship with the Lord, His Saviour.
Ken eventually moved to town and worked at a number of construction jobs until settling at PIR where he, in typical “Ken” fashion, gave his all.
Ken and Joanne met in 1981 and married August 4, 1984. He spent the next 18 years making their lives together joyful. They have two great sons, Jared and Tyler that they are very proud of. Ken was a very gentle, patient and loving father who will be missed.
He was a great storyteller and entertained many with his tales. Ken’s legacy was living his life to the fullest and with PASSION. He was a skilled handyman and talented fisherman. He was dedicated to his personal health and fitness. He was a wonderful husband, father, brother and son. He was always ready to tease and his sense of humour allowed him to laugh at himself. His goodness shone in his smile and echoed in his laugh.
Ken will be deeply missed by loving wife and children, Joanne, Jared and Tyler; mother, Sophie; Judy, Jenna, Kelsey, Colton, Sharon (Al), Trenton, Jacueline (Leo), Mitchell, Darryl, Kyle, Roy and the community he loved. Ken was predeceased by his father, Harke VanderMeulen, and brother Mike VanderMeulen.