Kenneth Young

Kenneth John Young, at the far too young age of 64, passed away at Dulcina Hospice on June 19th, 2026. Following a surprise diagnosis in 2016 of terminal neuroendocrine tumor cancer, Ken pushed the envelope and challenged the rules as he always did, surpassing an implied 2-year life expectancy with 10 fully engaged, fabulous years of living his life at its fullest. 

Born in Matsqui, BC Ken took up flying in high school, going on to instruct at the Abbotsford Airport, putting in his hours in various locales, flying medivacs, and eventually becoming a commercial pilot. He started flying with Frontier Airlines in Timmins, Ontario which through many mergers and iterations became Jazz Aviation, an Air Canada partner. He earned his captains’ wings and also became a Check B training captain, spending nearly 37 years with the company.

Outside of his passion for flying, Ken loved to golf, took up running half-marathons, faithfully followed Formula 1 racing – including a trip to the Monza Grand Prix. Most of all, Ken loved to spend time with friends and his wife. Of special mention, Team Mellow including Denis and Terri-Lou Dionne, Peter and Kelli Dionne, Pete Maynard; flying brothers and their wives Kurt and Sue Husband and Earl and Linda VanDyke; close friends Bruce and Betty Bridgett; the Husky Old Balls Golf group who have met annually for 30 years and Ken never missed one tournament. Ken had a generous heart and was unwaveringly loyal and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

In 1997 Ken met his future wife, Catharine (Velders) at a community corn roast. Together they enjoyed building a number of homes together, participated in many charity races, and took many trips including a boat and bike tour in Holland, saw much of Europe and experienced some wonderful cruises. They have been snowbirds for the past 15 years, and Ken will truly be missed by his Maricopa “family”.

Ken is lovingly remembered by his wife Catharine, sisters Dianne (Rick) Zenzen and Debra Dotten, his sister-in-law Arlene (Ed) Young-Reimer, numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, great-great nieces and great-great nephews, as well as Catharine’s extended family. Ken was pre-deceased by his parents and brothers.

Sincere appreciation for the hard work and dedication by everyone at the Arthur J E Child Cancer Centre (and previously the Tom Baker Cancer Centre). Particular recognition goes to Dr. Dean Ruether, as well as Dr. Janice Pasieka now retired. Heartfelt thanks go to the compassionate staff at Dulcina Hospice. 

At Ken’s request, no formal service will be held. A celebration of life will be held in the coming months, details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Canadian Neuroendocrine Tumor Society at www.cnets.ca.