Kenneth “Ken” Laverne Elder of Cochrane AB, formerly of Red Deer AB, passed away peacefully surrounded by the family who loved him deeply at Bethany Cochrane on April 9, 2026, at the age of 81 years.

Born on March 18, 1945, in the Whitewood Hospital, Saskatchewan. Ken grew up on a dairy farm near Kipling, Saskatchewan. Those early years shaped him into a man known for his steady work ethic, gentle nature, and quiet strength.

On May 6, 1967, Ken married his lifelong partner and best friend, Shirley Bogdan. Together they built a home filled with love, purpose, and unwavering commitment. Their life on the dairy farm near Fillmore, Saskatchewan, was rich with hard work, laughter, and the joy of raising their four children. Later, Ken and Shirley moved to Weyburn and eventually to Alberta, choosing to be close to their children and grandchildren—something that brought Ken immense happiness.

A turning point in Ken’s life came on January 26th, 1992, when he made the most important decision he would ever make: to serve God. From that day forward, his faith became the foundation of his life. Ken cherished fellowship, prayer, and reading the Scriptures. These were not simply habits but expressions of a deep and sincere devotion that guided him every day.

In his later years, Ken faced Alzheimer’s with remarkable grace. For the last six years of his life, he lived at the Cochrane Bethany, where Shirley remained faithfully by his side, caring for him with the same love and dedication that defined their marriage.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; children Carla (Ian Thayer), Carmen (Dave Jordan), Chris (Emily) Elder, and Chad Elder; his treasured grandchildren Carson, Dawson, Hudson Jordan and Sophie, Kate, Jesse, and Anna Elder. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he took great pride in the family he and Shirley built together.

He is also survived by his brothers Murray (Phyllis Elder) and Herb Elder; sisters in law, Gilly Liebelt, Marie (Larry) Wiggins and Kay Bogdan; brothers in law Larry (Linda) Bogdan and George Kaczmar as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

Ken was predeceased by his parents, Herb and Eva Elder; in-laws Nick and Flossie Bogdan; sisters Phyllis and Glenda; niece Michelle; sisters-in-law Adeline and Elaine and brothers-in-law Wilbert, Gordon & Allan.

Ken will be remembered for his kindness, his humility, and his steadfast faith. He leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and quiet strength—one that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

May he rest in peace, held in the everlasting care of the God he served so faithfully.

A memorial service for Ken will be held at the Lansdowne Memorial Garden in Kipling SK on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 2:30 pm..

Condolences to Ken’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Ken Elder” in the subject line.

 

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944

• Date : 2026-04-10
• Location : Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service, Red Deer AB "Locally Owned"