Suekann Wong Gin (Ken), age 81, passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2014. Ken, son of May & Wong Gin, was born on January 2, 1933, at Herbert, SK. He attended Herbert School, and from a young age, he worked with his family at their café. After their father’s passing in 1960, Ken and his brother, Henry, took over operation of the Tuxedo Café until it was sold in 1985. During the remaining years of the café’s operation, Ken was the consummate businessman and catered to the community he loved. His involvement and leadership became evident at an early age, as he was the President of his graduating class, later serving as Chamber of Commerce President and as a town councilor. His civic mindedness and benevolence were instrumental in initiating efforts for Herbert’s first skating rink and swimming pool. He continued to serve the community even after suffering a stroke and was recognized for his volunteerism, but to Ken, he was just taking care of business. Aside from Ken being a beloved and devoted son and brother, he was a unique and interesting character. In his youth, he was fond of big band melodies and playing his trumpet. He was an automobile collector and took great pride in his restored truck and convertible. He loved to cruise around in his convertible with the “boom-box” speakers, broadcasting his favorite music, often with passengers in tow. There seemed to be a natural progression from vehicles to equipment. His Kubota tractors were not only utilitarian, but also modes of transportation. Ken enjoyed traveling and visited Vancouver annually to connect with former Herbert residents. Hawaii was also a favourite destination after ‘85. The annual Craven event became a pilgrimage that was never missed. Unfortunately, in the early 1980’s, Ken suffered a debilitating stroke that irrevocably changed his life, altered his personality and relationships. He laboured to rehabilitate himself, however, his speech was profoundly affected to the point that communication became difficult and his gait awkward. In spite of what had befallen him, Ken remained a force to be reckoned with and persisted to live his life to the best of his abilities. He is sadly missed by family & friends. Ken was pre-deceased by his parents, Wong Gin & May Gin; his sister, Dollie Muir; and his brother, Henry Gin. He is survived by his sister, Joeline (Sammy) Shong; his brothers, Sueloge Gin, King Gin, and Dan (Julie) Thom; 12 nieces and nephews; 16 great-nieces and nephews; and by 14 great-great-nieces and nephews.
Thank you to Dr. Kassett, to Ken’s many caregivers over the past few years and to all of the staff at the Herbert & District Integrated Healthcare Facility-Longterm Care.
The Graveside Service was held on Tuesday, January 28, 2014, at 11:00 am at the Herbert Cemetery, Herbert, SK with Pastor Donovan Epp officiating. In memory of Ken Gin, donations made to the Herbert & District Recreation Board, the Herbert & District Integrated Healthcare Facility Auxiliary, or to the Charity of the Donor’s Choice would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements were in care of Swift Current Funeral Home, Swift Current, SK.
To sign the Book of Condolences for the family please go to swiftcurrentfuneralhome.com