Ken Houston passed away, with his family by his side, on October 18, 2023, in Victoria, BC. He was born on June 13, 1941, in Foam Lake, Saskatchewan.
Ken is survived by his wife of sixty years, Sue Houston; his children Dean (Christine) Houston,
Laura Houston Jeffrey (Mike) and grandchildren, Kelsey Houston, Erin Houston, and Kyra Jeffrey. Ken was predeceased by his brother Larry in 2008; he is survived by his sister Jeanie (Ed) Thomson and sister-in-law Heather Houston. He will be missed by many other family and friends who were drawn to his kindness, generosity, and unfailing good humor. He was the light and heart of our family.
After 40 years of running Mac’s Heating, Ken retired to focus on friends and family, spending time boating in Brentwood Bay and tending to the grapes in his vineyard. With the success of the vineyard, Ken and his friends decided to combine their harvests and establish Starling Lane Winery. After enjoying success with their wines, they branched out into making port from local blackberries. Port Victoria was proudly served at The Empress Hotel.
A talented woodworker, viticulturist, and builder – Ken’s creativity allowed him to see a completed project before work had even begun. His talents and good nature allowed him to be a regular Tom Sawyer. He somehow managed to convince friends to help maintain the vines and work the harvest in exchange for wine and pizza. Everyone who knew Ken felt lucky to be included in any project he had going on.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Ken’s name to, Victoria Makerspace by e-transfer accounting@makerspace.ca or by cheque payable to Victoria Makerspace, Unit 4A – 4476 Markham Street, Vancouver Island Technology Park, Saanich, BC, V8Z 7X8. Money donated will be used to purchase tools for the charity. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
11 Responses
Dear Sue, Laura, Dean and Christine,
My deepest condolences. My heart is with you.
Ken was truly one of a kind. Although our time together was short, he openly shared his heart and soul with gentleness and kindness. He filled our time together with laughs and joy. Rest in peace dear Ken, and I’ll miss you till we meet again.