On 18th October 2025, Kenneth (Ken) passed away suddenly at his home surrounded by his loving family, aged 93 years. The much loved and loving husband of Patricia, devoted dad of Duncan, Jacky and Jane, dear father-in-law of Chantal, cherished and adored grandad of Kirsty and fiancé Dylan, and George, also a dearly loved big brother, brother in law and ‘uncle’ to many.
Kenneth spent most of his working life as a plumber, both abroad and here in the UK. He was proud of his work. In later years, he joined Withnell Engineering as an Industrial Pipefitter, where his dedication and craftsmanship were highly valued by colleagues and friends alike. Kenneth had a way of making hard work seem easy, ever the perfectionist and keen share his skills with others. In his younger days, Kenneth was an aspiring footballer and had been a lifelong supporter of Blackburn Rovers and Accrington Stanley.
Known for his hands on approach, he was always ready to tackle a DIY project, though his family fondly recall that many of these projects didn’t quite reach the finishing line. You could also set your clock by Kenneth – each Wednesday at The Whitakers and Saturday afternoons with his late brother Richard and friends at Burnley Road Bowling Club, and Kenneth had to have his tea at 5.00pm on the dot each day. Kenneth loved people and would talk to everyone and anyone and he had a super memory for a name, which always made people feel special. He loved to keep up to date and avidly watched the news and also enjoyed a good western film. He was the loveliest character and always at his happiest in the heart of his family. He loved family gatherings especially at Elsie and Pauls on Boxing Day when the whole family were together. In later years, he enjoyed peaceful afternoons sitting in his cosy chair, reading the newspaper cover to cover and keeping an eye on the neighbourhood, like a one man neighbourhood watch with a kind heart and sharp eye. And we mustn’t forget his love of whisky. Those who knew Kenneth will remember him as a kind, intelligent, generous gentleman, full of warmth and love (and whiskey). He will be deeply missed by his dearest wife, family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing this lovely man.
