Kenneth W. McWhirter

In loving memory of 

Mr. Kenneth W. McWhirter 

January 1, 1961 – November 17, 2022

With great sorrow, Ken’s family announces his passing at Health Sciences North on Thursday November 17th 2022 with his wife by his side. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Jolyne McWhirter (nee Génier), children Kyle (Sarah) and Kristopher (Erica), and grandsons Dawson and Sheldon.  He will also be missed by his siblings Peter (Annette), Karen (Louis) Dingley and Gregory (Diane). He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, relatives, as well as numerous friends who were like family. Ken was predeceased by his father John McWhirter and mother Jean McWhirter (nee Schofield), as well as his nephews Tyler and Daniel.

Ken was always a family man and meant the world to many people. The love Ken had for his wife, who he endearingly called his “Lovely Elizabeth”, was immeasurable and was shown throughout their 40 years of marriage. Ken had a beautiful family who are who they are because of him. Ken held a very special bond with his boys, teaching them many life lessons that they will never forget. He also loved spending time with his grandsons and had a knack for making them smile. While he never had a girl, Ken had two bonus daughters who loved him like a father. 

Second only to his family was his love for the outdoors. Whether he was hunting, fishing or just going for a ride, Ken loved being in nature. He was also a trapper, doing so with his family for many years. This was a tradition that he carried on with his own boys, making numerous memories along the way. He could often be seen cruising around Gardiner Lake listening to his go-to fishing tunes. 

Ken also had a love for animals. If you were ever unsure of where he was, he could always be found by following the trail of dogs and cats who were crowded around waiting for him to sneak them a snack. 

Along with the fun came many years of dedicated work. Ken fulfilled the role of Supervisor/ORO of Water & Wastewater Management for the Town of Cochrane. Along with this came his roles in fire management. Not only did he work for the MNR Fire Rangers in his younger years, but also devoted 28 years of his life as a volunteer firefighter with the Cochrane Fire Department. Ken treasured the brotherhood that he formed with his fellow firefighters. 

There was never a dull moment with Ken. He always kept his family and friends on their toes with his plans and his “Kenny Adventures”. He had a contagious laugh and a smile that could light up a room. Ken will forever be in our hearts and will continue to live on in the cherished memories made.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Lady Minto Hospital, as well as the Cochrane District EMS for their professionalism and compassion in the care provided to Ken. 

Relatives and friends are welcome to visit on Wednesday November 23rd, 2022 from 2 pm to 4 pm and 7 pm to 9pm at Irvine & Irvine funeral home, 70 Seventh Ave. South of Cochrane. Ken will be buried in a private ceremony at the Civic Cemetery in Cochrane in the spring of 2023.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Timmins and District Hospital - Dialysis unit or NOAWS and would be greatly appreciated. If you wish to send online condolences to his family, to share your memories or photos of Ken please visit www.irvineandirvinefuneralhome.com

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to 

Irvine & Irvine funeral home 

70 Seventh Avenue South, Cochrane, Ontario 

705-272-3239 

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