It is with great sadness that the family of Ken Hamanishi announces his passing on Mar.18th, 2012 In Nanaimo, BC. Ken leaves to mourn his wife of 46 years, Ann (nee
Ardethe Ann Kelly) son Craig (Elizabeth), daughter Jill (Allan Phipps) and the lights of his life, grandsons Craig and Owen Phipps. Brothers Tom (Teena), Ed (Vivian) and sister Yvonne (Ron) and many nieces and nephews.
Ken was born in Kelowna to Frank (Masayuki) and Alice (Fumiko Shirai) Hamanishi and attended Kelowna Secondary School. He played junior hockey for the Kelowna Buckaroos from 1961-63 and later moved north to play senior hockey for the Williams Lake Stampeders. Ken and Ann were married in Williams Lake in 1966 and later lived in Summerland, Oakville
Ontario, Prince George,
Abbotsford & Cranbrook.
Ken spent his entire career in the forest industry and worked for Lignum,
Northwood and ended his career as a lumber trader at Tembec. He was well respected among his
colleagues & associates and always described as a gentleman and friend. Several traders noted his willingness to provide guidance and mentorship as they were starting their careers.
Ken was a member of the Cranbrook Golf Club where he loved to play senior men's golf in the early mornings. Ken and Ann moved to
Nanaimo, BC and enjoyed watching the fishing boats and Navy ships cruising the waters in front
of their home.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Palliative Care, c/o N&D Hospital Foundation, #102 1801 Bowen Rd., Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H1 or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.