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
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Cheryl Relf
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Pam and Gord Adams Dear Sue, Dean, Laura and families,
We would like to extend our condolences to the family.
We have so many wonderful memories of good times spent with Ken, through many years of friendship. There have been so many wonderful, road trips, ski trips, boat, trips, movies, dinners, and so many fun times spent in Ken‘s garage. We were learning how to look after his award winning grapes or make a beautiful flower basket or puppets.
It is with heavy hearts that we will be away during Ken’s celebration of life and so we will raise a glass of wine and make a toast to Ken.
From Gord and Pam Adams
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Leanne Ross Mrs Houston, Dean, Laura and families,
My deepest condolences on the passing of Mr Houston. I have very fond memories of being young and hanging out with your family. Mr Houston had the greatest laugh and won’t be forgotten.
Leanne Ross
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Debbie Watling (Ross) Mrs Houston, Dean, Laura and your families, my condolences to all of you
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Ian Ferguson Dear Sue, Dean, Laura and family.
Our thoughts and love are with you and the family during this very difficult time.
Ken will be missed by us all.
He was a kind and gentle man and truly a great friend. His was a life very well lived.
Love to all of you.
Liz and Ian Ferguson
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Deanna Chan to Sue and Family:
For 35+ years, we have been blessed with Ken and you as neighbours and friends. We have shared together countless bottles of wine, family meals, holiday celebrations, boating, prawning, exercising, farming, story telling, jokes telling (good and bad) and lots of laughters and fond memories.
Ken will be missed and we know he has a front row seat in his new peaceful “garden” and smiling at you.
Kari and Deanna Tapanainen
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Susan Hughes So sorry to learn of the loss of your beloved Ken. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Susan Hughes
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Jack Godlonton Sue and family,
Our condolences for your loss.
Mary and Jack Godlonton
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susan petford Dear Sue, Dean, Laura and families,
We have wonderful memories of growing up on McLellan. We couldn’t have asked for better neighbours and friends.
Ken was a kind man and was respected and admired.
Our heartfelt condolences to you all,
Susan and Don Petford
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Jacqueline Baker Ronert Baker To Sue and family
Our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
Ken will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He was a lovely and kind man and we were privileged to know him.
Take care.
Jacqueline and Bob Baker
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Joe Gubbels Ken and I were only one year difference in age. As cousins we were loyal playmates. I remember Ken as being very quiet but went alone with my brother, John, and I he joined us in our mischievous ways.
Unfortunately, as we got older, we went our separate ways. When we did get together we reminisced the “good old days”.
We will all miss Ken. May he rest in peace.
Joe Gubbels
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.