Kenneth Blake (Ken) Ward, 86, of Cornwall, Ontario passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, February 16, 2024.

Ken leaves behind the love of his life, Rita (nee Magill). He is also survived by their three children, Rob Ward (Christine), Kelly Ward-MacDonald (Kevin) and Andrea Ward (Tim). Ken was grandfather to Tessa (Connor), Taya (Dylan), Liam and Thomas. He was great-grandfather to Wren.

Ken was born in Kent, England and immigrated to Canada with his late parents Lesley James Ward and Florence Ward (nee Blake), his brother Bill Ward (the late Mary) and his sister Mavis Medulan (the late Stan).

Ken enjoyed a career teaching high school for many years and after his retirement, he always delighted in bumping into former students.

Ken and Rita shared many happy times sailing on Celtic-themed cruise ships. Putting people first, they enjoyed performing Scottish country music for appreciative audiences at retirement homes on both sides of the border. Ken loved to laugh and was always ready to share a joke or a humourous story. His smile always lit up a room.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Asmis and his caring team at the Ottawa Regional Cancer Center, to Dr. Menon for her compassionate palliative care, and to the professional staff and volunteers at Riverdale Terrace Retirement Residence and Hospice Cornwall for their kindness, support and care shown to Ken during his stay.

Memorial donations may be made in Ken’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society, Hospice Cornwall Carefor or St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (Lancaster).

In keeping with Ken’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Visitation will be held Monday, February 19th from 7-9 pm at Munro & Morris Funeral Home, 46 Oak Street, Lancaster, Ontario. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, February 20th at 11 am at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in South Lancaster, Ontario. Friends and family are invited to a luncheon in the church hall following the service.