KENNETH (KEN) JOHN CHORNEY

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KENNETH (KEN) JOHN CHORNEY

August 3, 1946 - August 31, 2025

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ken Chorney, who left us suddenly and peacefully at the Brandt Creek Mews Care Centre in Kelowna, B.C., at the age of 79.

Born in 1946, Ken was a good man - a true gentleman. He was smart, had a great sense of humour, was gentle, kind and humble.

While attending the University of Manitoba, where he earned his Bachelor of Commerce degree, Ken worked for the Canadian National Railway. Upon graduation, he continued his career with CNR and later VIA Rail, dedicating more than 32 years of service to the railway.

Ken was deeply committed to his colleagues through union leadership. He served as President of Local 1874 of the United Transportation Union (UTU), Local Chairman of the Passenger and Conductor Union, and, in the 1980s, was a proud member of the Committee to Maintain the Caboose. He approached these responsibilities with complete engagement and genuine care for the members he represented.

Ken and Deb enjoyed their cottage in Minaki, Ontario, before settling in Kelowna, B.C., where they spent the past decade enjoying the peaceful beauty of the Okanagan.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Phyllis Chorney, and his best canine friend, Jake. Ken will be missed by his loving wife, Deborah Walsh; his sisters, Beverly Cohen and Judy Chorney; his nieces and nephews, Lori Cohen, Lesley Cohen, Graham Hartwell and great-niece Ever Cohen. In addition to his immediate family, Ken felt fortunate for his extended family through his wife. He took great pride and joy in Kelli (Ryan), Tara (Riley) and Ryan (Sarah) and delighted in their children - Jeff, Louise, Eva and Claire- who lovingly called him "Poppa Ken", a title he cherished.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for Ken at the Brandt Creek Mews Care Centre, and to friends and family who spent time with Ken at his new home. These visits meant the world to him.

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Ken's Life will be arranged and announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society or to a charity of choice, in Ken's memory.

Rest in Peace, dear Ken.

KENNETH (KEN) JOHN CHORNEY

August 3, 1946 - August 31, 2025

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ken Chorney, who left us suddenly and peacefully at the Brandt Creek Mews Care Centre in Kelowna, B.C., at the age of 79.



A longer obituary will follow on Saturday.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 10, 2025, Sep 13, 2025