Kenneth “Ken” Gordon Tontsch, resident of Grande Prairie, AB formerly of Fort St. John, BC, and Burford, ON, passed away on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the age of 73 years with family by his side.

Ken was born on November 9, 1950, in Burford, ON where he was also raised. He met and married the love of his life, Barbara Elizabeth Tontsch (nee Keczan). They moved to Fort St. John, BC shortly after Ken completed his postsecondary education at the University of Waterloo. He enjoyed a long career as a social studies teacher with Peace River North - School District 60. A passionate educator with a flair for dramatic storytelling, his memory will live on in all those who were fortunate to work with Ken or take one of his classes.

Once retired, Ken pursued his passion for traveling with Barbara. He also spent countless hours in the field, pool, gym, and arena stands cheering on his grandchildren in their sporting endeavors.

Ken will be sadly missed by Barbara (wife), Taniya Birbeck (daughter), Adam Birbeck (son-in-law), Layne and Amity Birbeck (granddaughters), Kylee Lehr (daughter), Carl Lehr (son-in-law), Arianna Lehr (granddaughter), Walker and Easton Lehr (grandsons), Kaitlyn Lukoni (daughter), Nicholas Lukoni (son-in-law), Ella Lukoni (granddaughter), Maksym Lukoni (grandson) and Diane Orlicky (sister) as well as numerous others including brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends.

Ken was predeceased by his father George Tontsch, mother Sophie Tontsch, and brother Edward Tontsch.

A Celebration of Life will take place in Ontario in the Summer of 2024.

Memorial donations may be made to: Grande Prairie Hospice Palliative Care Society by visiting https://gpcare.ca/volunteer-or-donate/memorial-donations/