Kenneth Irwin CULLEN

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth Irwin Cullen on May 4, 2021 at the age of 70 to cancer. He passed away at home surrounded by his family.

Ken was born and raised in Vernon, BC. In his younger years he worked as a ranch hand on Anderson Ranch, operated heavy machinery for Parks Canada in Revelstoke, and graded roads for Mica Dam in the winter. Ken also worked as a deckhand and fisherman on two fishing boats in Bella Bella. Ken then worked for the Ministry of Highways for 37 years traveling all over British Columbia. He met and befriended many great people during his time with Highways. After retiring from Highways, Ken did contract work building roads in the Northwest Territories. He also worked for the Okanagan Indian Band assisting with emergency management and with the Okanagan Indian Band Fire Department doing driver training and truck maintenance.

In the midst of working for Highways, Ken also owned and operated a packing boat called the Vanishing Breed with his business partner, Stewart Willson of Bella Coola. The Vanishing Breed was moored in Bella Coola and hauled salmon to BC Packers for local gill-netters. The Vanishing Breed also conducted supply runs for various fishing vessels and chartered local Nuxalk First Nation youth to overnight cultural camps within their traditional territory.

Ken will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife of 46 years; Sharon, three children; David, Cheryl (Ray) Paul, and Julia (Dave) Huston, and three grandchildren; Lucas, Benjamin, and Zane.

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church (11365 Westside Road) on Friday July 30, 2021 at 11am. Burial at Komasket Cemetery to follow and a Boxed Lunch will be held at the New Horizons Elders Building (#8 Bonneau Road). Please follow COVID-19 protocol.

Arrangements entrusted to Vernon Funeral Home 250-542-0155. Condolences may be offered at www.vernonfuneralhome.com