Obituaries

VAN HAAR, Kenneth

September 4, 1937 - November 26, 2021

It is with profound sadness that Ken’s family said goodbye to him at Kelowna Hospice House on the evening of November 26, 2021. Ken is survived by Margaret, his loving wife of 61 years; his much loved daughters, Linda (Ron) and Christine (Jules); and cherished grandchildren, Aaron, Aimee and Ryder. He is also survived by sisters Margaret and Barbara (Guy) and brother Gord (Pat); brother-in-law Jim (Lucie) and sister-in-law Denise; and many nieces and nephews. Ken had many wonderful friends who have been kind and helpful during this difficult time.

Ken was born in New Westminster, BC and spent his childhood in the Coquitlam area. Margaret and Ken were married at White Rock, BC in 1960. They moved to the Okanagan with their two young daughters in 1966. Ken worked in the grocery business for 44 years. The first eight with Super Valu, followed by 36 years with Safeway before retiring at age 60.

Travel was a great source of pleasure for Ken and Margaret. Over the years, they explored Canada by R.V., train, bus, and car. They also enjoyed numerous cruises. Most recently, they delighted in a much-anticipated Rocky Mountaineer train trip to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary.

Those who knew Ken will remember his positive outlook on life. He cherished spending time with Margaret, family, and friends. They will also know one of his favourite things was going to Tim Hortons for an afternoon coffee!

Ken was much loved and will be missed immensely.

To honour Ken, a Private Graveside Service will be held in Fort Langley, BC.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency Sindi Ahluwalia Hawkins Centre for the Southern Interior, www.bccancer.bc.ca/donate, or the Kelowna Hospice House, hospicehousekelowna.com.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com (click direct link below)

Link: www.springfieldfuneralhome.com/obituaries/van-haar-kenneth

Condolence Messages

Dec 09, 2021
Ken was a wonderful storyteller and such a vital member of the Museum Writers Group. He kept us both entertained and fascinated with his stories of growing up in the wilds of Coquitlam. These became his legacy for his much loved family. It was a pleasure to know him. My condolences. Sharron Simpson
Dec 07, 2021
I’ve just heard the sad news of Kens passing. I’m so sorry Margaret, I pray all your memories will bring you peace and comfort. Thinking of you, Sheila Schwartz
Dec 06, 2021
Dear, Margaret and family

So sad to hear of Ken's passing. Every time I ran into Magaret and Ken we would have a little visit. Ken was always smiling and very friendly. I would think to myself what a perfect couple those two made. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him. My sympathy goes out to Margaret and all the family.

Sharon Davis(Sears)
Dec 05, 2021
Margaret..... so sorry to hear of Ken's passing..... his stories at the writers group were always an inspiration to all of us.....may he now rest in peace..... Alice Lundy
Dec 05, 2021
Margaret,

I am so sorry for your loss. I still can't believe it. Did I not just talk to him? He was such a gentle soul and I will never forget him.

Margaret I wish you the best on your walk in to a lonely future.

Margot Gloge
Dec 04, 2021
Keith and I send our condolences to you and your family Margaret. Working with Ken was a pleasure, such a kind and caring man. We always loved running into you guys and having a chat with you both. Sending hugs to you Margaret.

Keith and Kim Brandt
Dec 04, 2021
So sorry to hear Ken passed. We had great times with him at Safeway. Another good crib player in heaven. Always was good to meet up with him. Laurie Sweet
Dec 04, 2021
Margaret the man will be missed by all of us that knew him he was good to work for and a good friend r.i.p. Don Favell
Dec 04, 2021
So sad to hear of Ken’s passing. I was a childhood friend of Linda’s and enjoyed many sleep-overs and time with the family. Mr. Van Haar (as I knew him as a child) was always fun to be around. My parents (Erich and Margaret) cherished their friendship with Ken and Margaret. Condolences from the Walter family. Val Evans
Dec 03, 2021
Margaret and family, I am so sorry to read of Ken’s passing. I think he will have left a legacy of some great stories of his life. We enjoyed having him as part of our Writers’ Group for some years. I will always remember him as a thoughtful kind man with a sense of humour. Sincerely in deepest sympathy and friendship. Donna Nicholas
Dec 03, 2021
Margaret. I am so sorry to hear of Ken”s passing. Nothing I can say will make it any better but just want you to know I am thinking of you. My condolences. Bob Petty
Dec 03, 2021
Margaret and Family

My deepest condolences to you all. I had the pleasure of working with Ken at Safeway. He was always so kind abd caring. Sending you Love and Hugs Margaret
Dec 02, 2021
Dear Margaret,

I”m sorry to read of Ken’s passing. Thanks for your friendship I will remember you and Ken and all your kindnesses over the years.

Blessings,

Jane (Swanson) Grant.
Dec 02, 2021
Margaret and family, my condolences.

Harry Mehmal
Dec 02, 2021
Margaret and family,

So sorry to hear this and sending deepest condolences. I candy striped with Linda and got my foot in the door at Safeway back in 1979,and Ken was already working there.It was a pleasure working with him and will never forget when he had to come down to the store to let me out as I got locked in after closing on a Saturday night at 7 pm. Linda,sending you big hugs,I know how close your family was. Ken was a gem of a person!!

Brenda Bentien
Dec 02, 2021
Margaret,

I am shocked and surprised to hear of Ken’s passing. I always enjoyed talking to both of you when I saw you in the mall. Ken always had a positive attitude, and loved to laugh. A real gentleman!

May God give you strength in the upcoming days.

Sheldon and Marlene Beagle
Dec 02, 2021
My deepest condolences to you Margaret and to the family. I had the pleasure of working with Ken at the downtown Safeway(#170) for many years. One of the most caring, loyal guys I've worked with. And after all these years after retirement, still, whenever he stopped by the store, would ask how my wife and family were doing. Sorry again for your loss. Terry Campbell