On Monday, July 11th, 2022 our beloved Ken Paul of Kingsclear First Nation (Pilick) peacefully made his way to Spirit World, carried on the wings of the sacred Eagle. Ken was a proud member of the Wolastoqey Nation, sharing his cultural teachings throughout his many journeys. An avid hunter and fisherman, Ken was deeply connected to his territory and steeped in traditional knowledge. Ken was keenly interested in the history of his people and walked in the footsteps of his ancestors, which is attested to by the many ancient artifacts that he discovered along his journeys.
He worked for Kingsclear First Nation for all his adult life, dedicated to the various roles he served, and finally retiring as the Director of Education. Despite retiring early, Ken continued to serve his people by taking on meaningful roles and spreading his wisdom throughout Wabanaki Territory.
Ken was an adventurous and curious soul, ever striving to understand the next mystery and embark on the next journey. He was by nature an educator and storyteller and took special interest in teaching the youth within his community. Ken always did his best to ensure that the youth were equipped with the foundation to become resilient, compassionate adults and helped shape the lives of countless individuals.
Ken was a committed family man, ever present in the lives of his children, extended family, and friends. He was always a dependable and honorable man that stood by his word. Ken was the type of man who would give the shirt off his back, his generosity was absolutely singular. Ken had an extraordinary way to evoke joy and happiness from everyone he exchanged with. His humour was his calling card, it will be the topic of many stories told until the end of time.
Ken is predeceased by his brother: Bernard, mother: Edith, and father: Walter, and is survived by his partner Helena, brothers: Darrell (Marj), Richard (Laurie), Roger (Carole), Ian (Judy), mother of his beautiful children Cindy, his children: Tracey (David), Austin (Kaley), Jenny Marie (Aaron), his step-children Jamie (Chantal), Gail (Aaron), Justin (Laurie), and Jennifer (Jay), and grandchildren: Daisy, Aura, Abby, Kristina, Caroline, Victoria, Madyson, Ceildh, Lilly, Holly, Kerry, Katie, Ryan, Emma, Alexis, and Aidan.
Although we miss Ken immensely, we are comforted in knowing that his lengthy battle with cancer and related health complications is over. The strength, courage and positivity exhibited by Ken throughout his battle is nothing less than inspirational and he will be lovingly welcomed with open arms by his Ancestors.
As per his wishes, there will only be an intimate family only service. We understand that many are grieving from this loss as he had an immense impact on everyone he shared time with. Please honour him by visiting his sacred fire anytime day or night for the next few days at the corner of French Village Road and Church Street in Kingsclear First Nation at his cabin.
Let us remember what Ken has taught us about life: it is a blessing to be part of this great mystery. We can honor his legacy by spreading positivity wherever we go, by being understanding of others, by showing compassion to everything around us, by connecting with nature, by being generous without a thought of reward, by deep loving those in our lives with all our hearts, and by passing along the teaching that he passed on to you, so that the world will continue to be a better place.
Donations can be made to a charity supporting Indigenous peoples, of the donor's choice.
Until we meet again, Apc oc Knomiyul.