Kenneth James Beckett

Ken Beckett, much loved husband, devoted father, beloved grandfather, son, brother, and friend, peacefully departed this life on March 30, 2024, at the age of 64. Born to Glenn and Eleanor Beckett on February 13, 1960, in Biggar, SK, Ken was the youngest sibling, adored by his sister and brothers, Joanne, Bill, and John.

Ken's journey began on the family farm, where he forged a deep connection to the land. From an early age, Ken built a strong relationship with his father while also building the family farm. It was at a Grey Cup party in Springwater, SK, in 1981, that he met the love of his life, Sherril. Over 43 years filled with love they married and had three children, Chris, Elyse, and Kaitlyn.

Ken found solace and joy in the rhythms of farm life. He farmed both grain and cattle, but had a special love for animals, including his cows, cats, and his beloved border collies over the years who faithfully assisted him in his work.

When not busy farming, Ken enjoyed spending time with his friends, who he had remained close with since his school days. Ken was involved with the Masons and found fulfilment in serving his community with them. He was a history buff and found joy in quiet afternoons spent watching history and travel shows with Red Rose tea and Peek Frean cookies.

Although dedicated to the farm, Ken’s greatest devotion was to his family. He was a loving father, and always made time for his children, whether getting up early so he could drive them to the ski hill for lessons, or embarking on spontaneous trips watersliding, annual trips to Waskesiu, camping, or road tripping. No matter how long his days were on the farm, he always made his family his priority and made sure to make them feel cherished and valued.

In 2014, Ken and Sherril retired from farming and relocated to Saskatoon to be closer to family. He enjoyed newfound leisure pursuits like walking his dog around the neighbourhood, taking in the jazz festival, kayaking, and cycling. He was able to travel the world with his family, including trips to Europe, Mexico, and many cruises. He loved his grandchildren and was proud to be their “Papa”. He could be found crawling on the floor playing, reading books to them, and pushing swings at the park.

In the face of his Alzheimer's diagnosis in 2022, Ken's unwavering optimism remained a beacon of strength for his family. He often spoke of his pride for his children and conveyed boundless love to his family at every opportunity.

Ken leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience cherished by his wife Sherril, children, Chris (Kristina) Beckett, Elyse (Jeremy) Eng, Kaitlyn Beckett, grandchildren, Eva, Eric, and Charlotte, siblings, Joanne (Dave), and John (Kathy), step-mom Mary, step-brother James (Mika), sister-in-law Marilyn, and cousin Evalynn Mann. He is also survived by his father-in-law Eric Gateley, sister-in-laws Diane, Brenda, and Joan, brother-in-laws Dave (Glenna), Brian (Annette), and Steve (Sook), and numerous other relatives and friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Eleanor and Glenn, and his brother, Bill.

Ken’s family will be celebrating Ken's life on Friday, April 12th at 1pm at McKague’s Funeral Chapel, 915 Acadia Dr, Saskatoon, SK.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ken’s memory to the Alzheimer Society.

We would like to give heartfelt thanks to the amazing staff at the Parkridge Dementia Assessment Unit and the Luther Special Care Home. They treated Ken with exceptional caring, kindness, and dignity. They showed our family incredible compassion and we will miss our visits in the sunroom there.