February 2, 1940 – May 24, 2018 ~ After a determined struggle with Parkinson’s, Ken passed away at the age of 78. Husband of Paddy. Father of Jonathon (late Marina). Grandpa of Sasha (Greg) and Chantal; and great grandpa of Abigail. Pre-deceased by his father Joe Allan (1945), mother Nora (2007) and step-father Bill Jeffrey (1990). Brother of Joy (late Bert) and Pat (late Patricia). Ken graduated from Queens with an Engineering degree and Western with a Masters in English. He was a scholar, a gardener, a scientist, an author, and an exceptional bridge player. He wrote articles for Harrowsmith, edited and published “Vegetable Garden Research”, and developed new varieties of peas and tomatoes. He experimented and found ways to grow sweet potatoes in our northern climate. His Harrowsmith articles then sparked a Canada-wide collaboration of gardeners which he included in a how-to book “Sweet Potatoes for the Home Garden”. His passion for bridge led him to write two bridge mystery novels, set in a small town north of Bruce Mines, using many local family names and places. Ken was competitive, inventive, analytical and lived his life quietly with values learned from his mother Nora, --- integrity, kindness, and humour. Family and friends are invited to an interment at Maple Ridge Cemetery, Thessalon on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at 1 pm. Following the graveside service, please join us at the home of Robert and Terry Allen, 14245 Hwy 17, east of Thessalon to share our memories and a pot-luck supper. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made at the Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. – 705-759-2522) to the Parkinson Society.
