Kenny Hougaard Straarup

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kenny Hougaard Straarup of Calgary, Alberta, who passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at the age of 80. He will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife, Lucille Straarup; his son, Cory Straarup; and his granddaughter, Hannah Straarup.

Ken was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Mary Straarup; his brother, Thomas Straarup; and his sisters, Ann Perry, Ellen McManus, and Agnes Lundstrom.

Born on October 31, 1943, in Denmark, Ken moved to Canada with his family at the age of three. He grew up on a farm near Rimbey, Alberta, and attended school there. Ken worked various jobs in Rimbey and Calgary during his early years.

In 1963, Ken met the love of his life, Lucille, and they were married in 1965, recently celebrating their 59th wedding anniversary. They eventually settled in Camrose, Alberta, in 1969, where they welcomed their only child, Cory.

Ken served as Branch Manager at Canadian Propane for many years until 1978 when he seized the opportunity to start his own business in Brooks, Alberta. He purchased a tank truck and moved his family to Brooks full-time in 1979. Through hard work and perseverance, Ken built a thriving business in the oilfield, including tank trucks, acid trucks, and vac trucks. After many years, Ken and Lucille decided to sell the business and retire in 1994.

In retirement, Ken and Lucille spent winters in Yuma, Arizona, for 34 years, a place that held a special place in Ken’s heart. Recently, when asked if he could do one more thing, Ken expressed his desire to return to Yuma one more time.

Ken adored his granddaughter, Hannah, born in 1999, and cherished every moment with her, never missing a school function or dance recital. He loved taking her to school and picking her up and was so proud of her and her acting career. 

Ken had a passion for woodworking, gardening, road trips to the mountains, and vehicles. He also loved country music and, in his younger years, played guitar and sang in a band called The Ramblers.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses who cared for Ken over the past 28 months. Their dedication and compassion at The Peter Lougheed Hospital will always be appreciated.

In accordance with Ken's wishes, there will be no service. 

Memorial tributes in memory of Ken Straarup can be made to the Czar Lutheran Cemetery, c/o Czar Lutheran Church, PO Box 161, Czar, AB, T0B 0Z0 or a charity of the donor’s choice.