Obituary of Kenneth Ivon Arnold

Kenneth Ivon Arnold passed away on Friday, May 18th, 2018 surrounded by family at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He was 75 years old.
Ken is survived by his wife of 49 years, Donna Arnold (Rambow); his daughter, Ramona Mann and her husband Merv, along with their children Madelyn, Marleigh and Marshall of Lloydminster; his son, Wade Arnold of Saskatoon and numerous brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces, and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents Adolph and Melita (Stickle) Arnold.
He was born on September 18th, 1942 in Kelstern, Saskatchewan. Being the 10th child in a large family of 15, he would grow up on a farm outside of Shamrock, Saskatchewan. Life on the farm was always busy with milking cows, hauling bales, feeding pigs and chickens and playing cards upstairs – all the while having a lot of fun together.  “Shiner” a nickname used regularly by his family and friends, truly described his youthful rambunctious nature and fiery disposition.  At a very young age, Ken would start working on the farm with his farther and brothers, but due to a back injury at 26, he decided to take a cabinet making course through Kelsey Institute in Saskatoon. This decision in his life brought forth a talent with carpentry and wood making; a passion that would continue into his retired years, as he could be found in his shop making furniture for his children, grandchildren or anyone who had a project.
It was in Hodgeville, Saskatchewan that Donna and Ken would meet, and marry on January 18th, 1969. Later, they would move to Saskatoon and start their family. Also, being an entrepreneur at heart, Ken would start his own business Steel-Craft Doors in 1975. This business venture would lead to his sponsorship of the Steel Craft Fastball team; a team that won provincials and represented Saskatchewan at nationals.  This was a moment of great pride for Ken as he always enjoyed playing sports and watching his favourite teams the Toronto Maples Leafs and the New York Yankees.
He embodied a strong work ethic in all that he did, but every morning would start the same. Ken would sit in his chair, drink several cups of coffee while reading the newspaper and listening to the morning news while awaiting a spirited conversation on the latest political issues.  In 2011, Ken would retire and continue with hobbies that he enjoyed with his wife. He loved to garden, travel, play cribbage, read and watch his grandchildren participate in many activities.  No drive was too long or too far, when it came to supporting his family, because nothing made him happier.  
Another joy in Ken’s life was spending time at their cabin at Brightsand Lake. The summers were packed with boating, tubing and other outdoor activities.  Family looked forward to vacationing at the lake because Ken was a true host whose barbequing skills were second to none. Many nights were spent outside, around the bonfire with a beverage in hand, watching Ken roast the perfect marshmallow.  
To those who knew Ken, knew that his gruff exterior was a front for a man with a huge heart, loving spirit, and a stubborn streak that was shown in his valiant battle with MDS.  He loved his life with his wife, children and grandchildren and his smile was infectious when speaking of their successes.
The family would like to acknowledge all the visitors who came to spend time with him during his short illness.  As well, a special thank you to the Oncology and Hematology ward, Dr. Goubran, nurse Julia, Dr. Awesome, the medical staff, and especially the nurses and nurse aides, at Royal University Hospital.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held at the Saskatoon Funeral Home (338 4th Ave N.) on Friday, May 25th, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Clinic, Provincial Hematology Department, Attention Dr. Bosch.