Hall, Kenneth Frederick
With many heavy hearts, the family of Ken Hall, of Fort Erie, announce his passing. In his 82nd year, Ken is predeceased by his parents, James and Mary Hall; brother-in-law, Richard Kershaw and sister-in-law, Janet Hall (nee Hunter). Surviving Ken are his wife of 59 years, Carolyn (nee Veitch); son, James; daughter, Barbara; son-in-law, Alex Scarlett; brother, Edwin Hall; sister, Marie Kershaw as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their respective families. Ken was also the immensely proud and irreplaceable ‘Papa’ of grandsons Cole (Emily), Adam and Lukas. Born and raised in Toronto as the Depression was thought to be ending, Ken developed an enduring passion for thoroughbred racing at an early age and began to view it as a path to better times. In his mid-teens Ken left home to pursue his chosen career - a decision that would change his life in ways he could not have imagined.
A naturally talented rider, Ken soon found himself at age 17, racing against his boyhood heroes. He quickly won his first race aboard Conn Smyth’s “Busher Royal”. The start to his riding career was exceptional and earned Ken the distinction of being among Canada’s premier apprentice jockeys in 1960. Ken’s career as a horseman took him throughout the U.S. and Canada. However, during a season at Fort Erie Race Track he met Carolyn Veitch and his plans began to change. They would become best friends and the true love of each other’s life for more than 6 decades, marrying on September 19, 1964. Ken became a permanent resident of Fort Erie, ending his racing career and began employment at Horton CBI until its closure, while raising a family. During this time Ken served as a representative of his local Steel Workers’ union, including his selection as President. After retiring from Horton CBI, Ken found his perfect job as a retiree - returning to the racetrack and working an additional 10 years working Fort Erie Slots. It was a time he particularly enjoyed, mainly because of the lasting friendships he developed with coworkers and clients.
Whether it was at the racetrack or in everyday life, Ken was the champion of the underdog. Ken was an astute and unassuming man who identified with and felt a connection to those who were unappreciated, undervalued or forgotten. He saw their worth and he remained partial to their cause throughout his life. Like so many others, Ken was a Bills, Jays and lifelong Maple Leafs fan, illustrating his eternal optimism that better days lie ahead for all of us – a comforting thought at this time. As a family, Ken left us with a life’s work of laughter and wisdom. Ken’s was a life well lived and we will forever treasure and honor his examples of humility, honesty and integrity.
We would like to recognize and extend our sincere appreciation to Drs. Csanadi and Werhun for their commitment to and exceptional care of Ken over many years. Consistent with Ken’s request, a private celebration of his remarkable life will occur at a later time. We extend our love and appreciation for all expressions of condolence to date.
In lieu of material expressions of sympathy, we would request that you extend it to others instead by purchasing the coffee of the driver behind you the next time you find yourself in a Tim Horton’s Drive Thru - in memory of Ken or through a donation to the Salvation Army.
