Kenneth Gemmell at age 86, died peacefully at his home in Guelph on June 17, 2019 with his cat Cody at his side. Predeceased by his wife of 39 years, Eileen Mary (Porter) and son Brian Douglas. He is survived by his other children; Steven (Sandy), Dennis (Colleen) and Janet Murfin (Chris); his grandchildren, Allison, Stephanie, Dennis and Ashley and one great grandchild, Cole. Born and raised in Woodstock Ontario, with his older brother Bob, the sons of Robert and Winnifred, Ken moved to Guelph with his family in his early teens. He transferred his mechanical skills learned at the family service station into a career at the University of Guelph; eventually retiring as Manager of Vehicle Services in 1988. He met his wife and the love of his life, Eileen Porter, swimming at Riverside Park Guelph. They were married in 1954. Ken had a passion for the outdoors and was an avid camper, which has been passed down to his children and grandchildren. He was a Boy Scout leader while his children were young and in his retirement, became an excellent bird carver. Cremation has taken place and a small family gathering of family and friends will be held in July. Special thanks to Doctor Nancy Luong and the amazing palliative care nurses, especially Sandra, who all helped Ken leave on his own terms. Memorial contributions to the Guelph Humane Society would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to GILCHRIST CHAPEL – McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street, Guelph, (519-824-0031). We invite you to leave your memories and donations online at: www.gilchristchapel.com and they will be forwarded to the family.