BUXTON Kenneth

1927 ~ 2013 Kenneth Joseph Buxton passed away on March 5, 2013, at age 86 years. Ken is survived by his wife of 63 years, Anne; his son Jody (Vicky); grandchildren Jeannine, Graydon and Darby; his sisters Elsie, Mary and Sheila; and numerous extended family members.

Ken was predeceased by his parents Susan and George Buxton. In 1926, Ken’s family immigrated from Derbyshire, England to take up a “promised” Soldier’s Settlement. Ken was born in 1927 near Innisfail, Alberta and at the age of 13, while his Dad served in the war, he helped his Mother run the farm, and then later trained in the Canadian Militia. Ken played hockey for the Drumheller Miners, later coaching Peewee and Intermediate hockey at Gleichen, Alberta. At the famed Calgary Stampede, Ken met Anne – beginning a full partnership of racing and training thoroughbred horses that lasted nearly 70 years. Several New Track Records were set during this time, including a world record with Tango King which still stands today. He also enjoyed many years as a Chuckwagon Outrider and was a member of Hank Willard’s 1951 championship team. After “retiring” in 1998, Ken, together with his wife Anne, raised some of their most successful horses and in October 1998, they were inducted into the Lethbridge Wall of Fame by the Thoroughbred Breeders of the Northern United States and Western Canada. Ken’s name is still well known and respected in the horse world. God’s Blessings, Ken – you will be greatly missed by all. Ken’s cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers with a memorial service to be held at a later date. Flowers are gratefully declined; however, if desired, donations may be made in Ken’s memory to St. Michael’s Health Centre, 1400 – 9 Avenue S, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 4V5. Send condolences at www.mbfunerals.com.