Kenneth Willing

The loss of a parent is indeed a sad time of life, but it can also be a time when fond remembrances rekindle old memories and friendships. As the oldest member of the neighbouring Smith family clan, I too remember "Mr. Willing" (crazy how nobody refers to elders as Mr & Mrs anymore) - he was the Dad who came promptly home from work so the family could all eat together. He had lots of patience with the antics of girls & their cut-out dolls and paper houses spread over bedroom floors for days.

As I remember it, Ken built the first basement rec room on the street. He was often close by sitting at his radio and even got hold of our Uncle Bill in Seattle a few times. Jan, Sue and I spent many a hot summer's day watching the afternoon movie in that room.

Thanks to Jan's phone call, I heard about her Dad's death and we had a great opportunity to share lots of info about our families.

Memories,friends,remembering,sharing, laughing, crying, new life and even death - they are all part of what makes this journey so worthwhile. Hopefully my sharing has brought a smile to your faces and a little sunshine to your day.

Hugs, Barb

I too am very sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Willing. And, like Bill Reid I have very fond memories of growing up on Fanshaw Ave just two doors up from the Willing family. I always thought that Mr. Willing was the perfect "Dad". He was so understanding and gentle natured.

I will also never forget Mr. Willing operating his "ham" radio. One day we could even hear his voice coming out of the burner on the electric stove! It was all plain magic to me as a child.

But my favourite memory was a discussion he, Rickie and I were having about getting married. We asked him how he picked Mrs. Willing to be his wife. Without missing a beat he said "Well - I was going to marry Theresa Brewer but she was already taken - so I married Mrs. Willing." Some how this made perfect sense to me.

My sincere condolences to the Willing family. I have only wonderful fond memories of your Dad.

Doug Smith

I am very sorry for your loss. Mr. Willing was my very first boss and I could not of asked for a better one.

I was saddened to hear about the death of Mr. Willing. I have very fond memories of growing up on Fanshaw Avenue in Applewood Acres; it was good place for a young boy. The Willing family were good neighbours, especially because Mr and Mrs Willing had such high tolerance for our childhood behaviours.

A few years ago I met Mr. Willing at the visitation for another Fanshaw Avenue neighbour, Mr. Burrill. Mr. Willing approached me and said, "I bet you don't know who I am?" Without hesitation I said, "yes I do, you are Mr. Willing." We were both pleasantly surprised that each had remembered the other after so many years.

I also remember being able to hear Mr. Willing's HAM radio conversations coming through our television and telephone. In those days of low technology this was an amazing event.

You will miss your beloved husband and father and I hope that, as the days and weeks go by, a lifetime of good and loving memories will help ease the pain of your loss.

Pat and family, I am so sorry to hear about Ken,I have very many beautiful memories of Ken and also you Pat from when we worked at Crane's,I loved Ken , who reminded me very much of my own father,,It was an honor to know him, and to work with him,He is in God's hands now, looking down at us,
May God bless you, and the family,

Hennia Tyhy, Smiths Falls,Ont.

Dear Pat & Family:
Please accept my deep sympathy at the passing of your husband, Ken. I always remember the days of the "Redcoat Gang" and all the good times we were happy to share. Do hope you are well and that your family and friends are nearby at this difficult time. May God bless you all and you are in my thoughts.
Dudley A. Fraser, Waterloo, Quebec.

Rick, Yvonne & Family,

My condolences to you all on the passing of your father, father inlaw and grandfather.

May the good memories of your father help you through your time of grief.

Always your friend.