H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre

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Kenneth Slade

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Kenneth Slade

June 16, 1929 - December 8, 2021

Tribute

At the age of 92 Ken slipped quietly away at home with his partner of 66 years, Patricia (Pat) by his side.

Ken was a kind and generous man whose door was always open to friends and strangers despite a house already full with 7 children.  He is a legend in the BC water well industry, founding Drillwell Enterprises in 1965, now a 3rd generation family business.  He served multiple terms as President of the BC Groundwater Association and traveled the world spreading his good humour and his vast knowledge of well drilling and groundwater.

Ken served on the Board of Trustees for the Cowichan Bay Fire Dept. for 50 years, holding the office of chair for most of that time.  Ken was a founding member of the South Cowichan Rotary Club, served on the board of Community Futures and was active in the United Church on various committees and the AOTS group.  He was a hockey coach, a scout leader, a business leader and above all an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend.  He was generous to a fault, and known as a prince by customers and business competitors alike.  He was universally respected and will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Ken is predeceased by his son Brian and daughter Karen and survived by his wife Pat, children David (Kelly), Paul (Colleen), Calvin (Leesa), Eric (Marie) and Melanie Brancato (Lou), 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank and acknowledge the amazing efforts by Wendy and Brenda, two wonderful people who provided care and support for Ken and Pat.  Their patience and compassion gave much relief to the family and allowed Ken to remain on the Cowichan Bay property that was home for almost 70 years.

A private family service will be held at the Duncan United Church on Wed. Dec. 29 at 1pm.  All who wish are welcome to attend by zoom, a link will be available on the Duncan United Church Website at www.duncanunited.org   or by using the following url: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88948312464?pwd=ZUVqcEtRWGhNOVA1aS9lTGJaNXhpZz09

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ken’s name to a charity of your choice.

Condolences

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From: H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre

H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre staff send our condolences to family and friends.

From: Cindy Wilson
Relation: Business acquaintance

My sincere condolences to the Slade family on the loss of a wonderful man. He was an example to us all of what it truly means to be a good person.

From: Dennis Pears and Charlaine Pears
Relation: Old friend

To Pat and children
We were so sad to hear of Ken’s passing. He was a wonderful person and much loved. Our sincere condolences to you and family.

From: Catherine Worthy(Halkyard)
Relation: Played female ice hockey and field hockey with Melanie

Ken was community. I will never forget our bright orange Drillwell hockey jerseys. Girls hockey was not popular and he aided with jerseys, advocating for ice time , supporting us at a time when only boys for ice time.

From: Richard ELLIS
Relation: Through community involvement

It is with sadness that I read of the passing of Ken. Our paths crossed in many ways,-Rotary, Community Futures, Cowichan Sportsplex and business. He was a man of compassion and caring, who looked to help many on this planet, including Africa. His principles have been passed on to his Family who view life in the same ways.
I am sorry to see him go, and send my condolences to his family as he will be sorely missed.

From: Laura Ferreira
Relation: Friend of family members

We just wanted say how sorry we were to read of Ken’s passing and to pass on our sincere condolences to his family and friends. He was a great man and lived a full life. Our thoughts are with you at this time.

From: Ron Cox
Relation: Life long friend

Dear Pat and Family:   The world did lose a great man on December 8th.  Our deepest condolences to the entire family.  Our families knew Ken 50+ years, as a neighbour and friend.  He lived a good life and was so respected by many.  Our families were so fortunate to have known him.    Ron remembers his sons blocking off Waldy Road so they could sell Ken a glass of lemonade back in the 70’s when we were renting John and Bonnie’s old house. Linda and my family have the fondest memories too.  Our love goes out to you all. Linda and Ron Cox 

From: Mary Braithwaite
Relation: Family friend

Pat, The Cowichan Valley has lost a true legend. Thinking back through the years and time spent at the Slade home brings nothing but great memories smiles. Ken was generous with his time given to Girls/women’s hockey whether it was sponsoring our team, being a great cheer leader or our driver on many a trips. Sending my deepest condolences.

From: Lynn Hawkes
Relation: Friend

Ken was such an amazing dear man. As a child, he gave me the keys to his truck while he drilled my parents well, I was maybe 14 years and said go ahead practice driving. Then in a few years I babysat for him and he was always such a nice person. I am blessed to have had a chance to see him while he had a short stay at Cairnsmore and let him know how much I cared about him. Love and condolences to all of his family. A true gentle soul.

From: Frank & Lynne van der Have
Relation: Through his company.

Our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Ken. He was always a pleasure to chat with. He will be missed in the community.

Service Schedule

Private service arrangements have been made.

Memorial Gifts

The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.

Thank You Notice

Live Service

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88948312464?pwd=ZUVqcEtRWGhNOVA1aS9lTGJaNXhpZz09

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