July 10, 1934 ~ November 4, 2024
With heavy hearts, the family of Kenneth Bernard Wenaas announces his peaceful passing at AgeCare Midnapore in Calgary on Monday, November 4, 2024, at the age of 90 years.
Ken was the beloved husband of the late Jeannie Wenaas, to whom he was married for 68 years.
He was born on July 10, 1934, on his family’s homestead NE1/4 22-05-25 just north of Robsart, Saskatchewan. Ken’s early life instilled in him the values of hard work, resilience, and community. A dedicated student, he completed high school at just 16 with the encouragement of four wonderful teachers. Ken married Jeannie in Robsart on May 27, 1955, beginning a beautiful life together filled with love, partnership, and shared dreams.
Ken will be lovingly remembered by his children, Bruce, Reg (Dawn), Stuart (Loraine), and Jeff (Shannon), along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy. He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Jeanette; his parents, Claus and Betina Wenaas; his siblings, Gloria Nelles, Palmer Wenaas, and Edna Behrman, as well as his beloved grandchild, Shawn Wenaas.
At 21, following the tragic loss of his father, Ken took over the family farm, embracing the responsibilities of his role with strength and devotion. Throughout his life, Ken’s passion for community and family never waivered. He enjoyed all sports, particularly hockey, and was deeply involved in 4-H, passing that passion down to his sons. Ken also contributed to his community through the Eastend Masonic Lodge and as President of the Kinsmen Club in Eastend.
Ken and Jeannie eventually moved to Eastend, where they became pillars of the community, operating several businesses, including the IHC Dealership, Cattle Auction Market, and a car wash. Later, their journey took them to Medicine Hat, where they could support their sons’ athletic pursuits. Medicine Hat became their cherished home and where they put down lasting roots, forming many friendships they deeply treasured.
Ken’s work ethic was strong, and even as he approached retirement, he continued to farm and run a feedlot southwest of Medicine Hat. To his family and friends, he was a mentor, a leader, and a guiding light.
Ken’s legacy lives on through his family and friends he leaves behind. He is now at peace, reunited with his beloved Jeannie, in eternal rest.
A Celebration of Ken’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 - 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Roland Wiesbrot officiating. The service will be live streamed. Those who cannot attend but wish to experience Ken’s service may visit the Cook Southland website and select the View Broadcast button on the homepage at service time. Reception will follow thereafter in the Reflections Reception Facility.
Video starts at 02:10
Linda Seifert:
Nov 07, 2024 at 07:59 PM
So sorry for your loss. Ken was a great guy and will be missed by his family and friends .
Glenn-Tanya Brost & Family:
Nov 07, 2024 at 08:35 PM
Sorry for your loss. Our heart goes out to all during this difficult time. Please accept our deepest condolences. We are thinking of you and your families.
Doreen Brost:
Nov 07, 2024 at 09:05 PM
Ken meant so much to so many, words can’t do justice to all his accomplishments. A great man with a kind and gentle heart. I’m so glad he married Jeanie and became my brother, a mentor and a friend. Sending condolences, love and hugs to all his loved ones.❤️🙏
Richard van Allen:
Nov 07, 2024 at 10:02 PM
Our condolence.
Mae Gleim:
Nov 07, 2024 at 10:23 PM
Bruce, Reg, Stuart, Jeff and families, my sincere condolences to all of you on the passing of your Dad. He and your Mother were very good friends to Ted and I and I will miss him and your Mother. We had many good times together over the years and made many good memories! May the memories you have shared with your Dad bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Love to all of you,❤️❤️❤️❤️
Mae Gleim
Marian Schell ( Hansen):
Nov 08, 2024 at 12:46 AM
Most sincere condolences to the Wenaas family
Louanne Delorme:
Nov 08, 2024 at 08:48 AM
My heartfelt condolences to all of Ken’s family. Prayers & thoughts are with you all 🙏🙏
robert nelles:
Nov 08, 2024 at 01:10 PM
My sincere condolences to all the Wenaas family and extended family. I have numerous fond memories of Uncle Ken and of my Aunt Jeannie, especially as a younger version of myself during my many (city slicker) visits to the family farm. He will be missed by all but thankfully the great memories live on.
Blair and Sheila Backman:
Nov 09, 2024 at 12:23 AM
Ken and Jeanne were good neighbours for many years and I dare say my brother and I learned much about being a farmer from Ken.
Our condolences to the family.
Blair and Sheila
Brian and Dianne Vansandt:
Nov 11, 2024 at 01:33 PM
Our condolences to the family. Ken was a great man, and we always loved a visit with him.
Joy. Anderson:
Nov 11, 2024 at 03:03 PM
So sorry to hear of the loss of Ken. Sonny and Ken had many adventures together when they were growing up. They were just 10 days apart in age.
This bond remained strong all through the years as the four of us celebrated many milestone events together.
I miss them more than words can say. May Ken rest in peace and join his beloved Jeannie once again.
Darleen Pearson:
Nov 12, 2024 at 11:05 AM
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to you all at this time. We have been friends for many years and have many happy memories. Hugs to everyone.
Garry James Karst:
Nov 12, 2024 at 01:16 PM
Our Sincere Sympathy to the Ken Wenaas Family
We have had the pleasure of Ken's friendship since our days in Eastend Sask. Ken touched the lives around him. He will be remembered.
Dorothy & Garry Karst
Carol and Glenn Kosloski:
Nov 13, 2024 at 03:32 PM
Our heartfelt condolences to the Wenaas family. I have many happy memories of times spent with your family, especially at the farm.
Chris and Donna Smeaton:
Nov 14, 2024 at 06:27 PM
Sending our prayers and condolences to the entire Wenaas family.
Arlene Washburn:
Nov 15, 2024 at 12:58 PM
I shall truly miss my dear brother-in-law - “Jeanie’s Kenny”, I am thankful to have so many cherished family memories of times spent together. Hugs and condolences to Bruce, Reg, Stuart and Jeff and your families. Love and cherish each other, you are much loved!
Warren and Norma King:
Nov 15, 2024 at 04:51 PM
We have you all in our hearts, as we say goodbye to Ken. Always a thoughtful friend with a caring heart.
Warren and I watched the beautiful service and sending our love to you all.
Many Memories ♥️
Warren and Norma King