Tribute

Kenneth Leon Ross was born on December 15, 1955, in Estevan, Saskatchewan to Doreen (née Kellington) and Matthew Ross. Ken was one of six siblings and grew up learning mechanics alongside his father, developing the hands on skills and work ethic that would stay with him throughout his life.

Ken eventually made his way to Vancouver Island, where he worked in the forestry industry before building a life and family in the Cowichan Valley with his wife Annette. Together they raised two children, Matthew and Chantal. Later in life, Ken purchased and operated Bronson Muffler, where he became well known throughout the community as a highly skilled exhaust specialist. If something needed fixing, building, welding, or figuring out, Ken was the person people called.

After the passing of Annette, Ken found love again and married Eialeen. Together they shared many adventures and took countless road trips with their motorcycles, making memories side by side and enjoying good food, laughter, friends, and family along the way.

Ken loved country music and classic rock, fishing, hunting, archery, camping at Nanaimo Lakes with his family, playing guitar, singing, and spending time outdoors. Nature brought him peace, and in the last years of his life he fulfilled a dream by building a cabin in the woods, a place that reflected his spirit and love for the simple things that mattered most.

Ken carried a steadfast Christian faith and was a man of strong convictions who spoke honestly and directly. You always knew where you stood with him, and people respected him for his sincerity and authenticity. He was a devoted Papa to his grandchildren, and was also known for his quirky sense of humour and unforgettable, boisterous laugh that could light up a room and make everyone around him smile.

Ken will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Eialeen, his children Chantal (Luke) and Matthew; his stepchildren Ashley (Rhys), Thea (Kennedy), and Kyle; his grandchildren Judah, Madison, Kayden, and Koen; his siblings Judy (Bob), Earl (Julie), Sandra (Gary), and Penny (David); his best friend Dave, and the many nieces, nephews, family members, and friends whose lives he touched over the years.

Ken was predeceased by his first wife Annette, sister Sheryl, mother Doreen, and father Matthew.

Though Ken may no longer walk beside us, his presence will continue to be felt in the laughter of family gatherings, the music of an old country song, the quiet of the woods, and the stories shared by those who loved him. His strength, humour, craftsmanship, and deep love for his family will remain a lasting part of the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.