Kenneth Edwin Soura

Kenneth Edwin Soura

1940 - 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kenny Soura, who peacefully departed on August 18, 2024, at the Swan Valley Personal Care Home, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 15,1940 in Birch River, MB, he touched the lives of many through his commitment to his work and community.

At the age of 17, Kenny began his career with the Department of Highways, dedicating 38 years to civil service. He formed lasting friendships with his colleagues while building roads across the parkland. In retirement, Kenny found fulfillment working with the Mullin family during harvest time and assisting on the bid floor at McKay Auctions.

In 1964, he and Patsy were married, initially residing in his childhood home. They soon began their family having 3 daughters between 1966 and 1970. In 1982, they bought a property on the west side of Bowsman and enjoyed 26 years on their farm, where Kenny delighted in raising Simmental cattle, chickens, and horses. He took immense pride in his family, his home and yard, and the many gatherings and good times spent with family and friends. After selling their family acreage in 2008, he and Patsy moved to Swan River.

A dedicated member of the Bowsman community, Kenny was known for his generosity and willingness to help. His active involvement included the Men’s Curling Club, the United Church, the Lions Club, and service as a volunteer firefighter and coach for hockey and ringette. His passion for fundraising was evident to all, always carrying a book of raffle tickets in his shirt pocket. Kenny’s love for sports began early, and he was an avid fan of the Stampeders, Montreal Canadiens, New York Yankees, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and, of course, his family. His competitive spirit shone through in every game he played or watched.

Kenny was a vibrant personality, with a special fondness for music. For many years, he was a drummer in a Dixieland band, playing at many dances and weddings throughout the valley. He was always ready to entertain and loved to sing and dance. Whether singing, playing his drums or spoons, Kenny brought joy and rhythm to every gathering. His love for music was matched by his enjoyment of outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and camping at Whitefish Lake. He will be fondly remembered for his lively spirit, unwavering generosity, colourful language, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Gwendoline Soura, his sisters Donna Tall and Audrey Jeffery, his brother-in-laws Ray Tall, Art Jeffery, and Ernest Ulvaan, and sister-in-law Agnes Bierwirth.  Kenny is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Patsy, and their daughters Deanna (Darryl Sabiston), Kendra (Todd Jones), and Treena. He is also lovingly remembered by his adoring grandchildren, Carli (Ben), Jaime (Nick), Brynn (Lance), McKenna (Nick), Ethan (Morgan), Payton (Kirsten), Abbey, and great-granddaughter Sophie.