SAMEL:
It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Ken Samel, on October 19, 2015.
Kenneth Ernest Samel was born on October 14, 1929 in Tompkins, SK to parents Otto and Mary. He was the youngest born into a large and loving family. Ken met future wife, Earla in Swift Current and the couple were married on February 26, 1948.
After the birth of their fourth child, he then joined the Army and moved the family to Canadian Forces Base Shilo/Brandon, Manitoba. Down time was spent as a family, fishing, camping and enjoying each other’s company.
Once the children were grown with families of their own, Ken and Earla moved to BC in 1971, living in Sparwood and Fernie where he worked as a driller for Kaiser/ Westar until he retired. After retirement, a new adventure took the couple to Faro, Yukon where he continued to work as a driller for the mine there. Ken also spent time as a driller trainer while in Faro.
They moved back to the Elk Valley and he finally, truly retired at age 71.
Left to mourn his passing are, wife, Earla, children; Beryletta Robinson, Kenneth (Wanda) Samel, Betty (Roger) Hutton, as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Ken was predeceased by daughter Earla Clark and son in law, Donald Robinson.
He had too many achievements to list but most important to him was having a large, loving family and his wife by his side, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He considered family to be anyone that wanted to be his family. Ken was a loving, caring man to all he came in contact with. He will be sadly missed by all who had the honour of knowing him.
A Memorial Service was held on Friday, October 23, 2015 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness in Fernie with Bill Baddeley officiating. Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.