Kenneth Gilbert Overby

Kenneth Gilbert Overby passed away peacefully at the age of 76, on Sunday, February 10, 2019 with family by his side at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, Moose Jaw, SK.  Ken was the beloved husband of Loretta for over 53 years, and loving father of Lori Hovington (Dave), Jo Overby and Troy Overby (Lisa). He was the cherished grandfather of Marcus Hovington, Alexa Riediger (Craig), Chandra Hovington (Brett), Ty Overby, Rylyn Overby, Joshua Overby, Finn Overby, and great-grandfather of Violet Cornelson and Ethan Riediger.  He will be greatly missed by his sister Delores Scarfe (Reg), and by his brother-in-law Norm Gordon.  Ken was predeceased by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Jean and Bill Hunt, brother-in-law Chuck Woolford, nephew Guy Woolford, and sister-in-law Shirley Gordon.  Ken was born to Gilbert and Mary Overby in Ethelbert, MB on May 23, 1942.  He attended school in Swan River, MB, and as a young man, he moved to Moose Jaw.  Shortly after, he joined the Moose Jaw City Police Force.   It was at this time that a mutual friend took him to Ron Muir's Beauty Salon and introduced him to Loretta Gordon.  The two were wed on July 24, 1965, at Zion United Church in Moose Jaw. They began their family a year later with the birth of Lori, and years later, Jo and Troy.  Ken poured his heart and soul into everything he did.  He was a very well-liked and highly-respected police officer in Moose Jaw, where he served his community for many years. He established and operated Mini Land Amusements in Moose Jaw where people could bring their families for fun and entertainment.  He was heartbroken in the early 90's when serious health concerns forced him to step away from two of his passions, Mini Land and policing. This, however, allowed him to embrace his entrepreneurial spirit of woodworking.  He was soon creating lawn ornaments, children's toys, and numerous other wooden projects, which he later sold at various craft sales.  Ken was an avid curling, Moose Jaw Warrior and Saskatchewan Roughrider fan.  Ken loved to travel, go for coffee, play cards and was a talented jack-of-all-trades. He also treasured his vintage car, a 1985 Camaro Z28; but Ken was happiest when he was spending time with his family, and especially his grandchildren.  He will be greatly missed by his immediate family, his nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous friends.  All are welcome to the visitation on Thursday, February 14, 2019 from 7:00-9:00 pm at Parkview Funeral Chapel, 474 Hochelaga St. West, Moose Jaw.  A Funeral Celebration will be held on Friday, February 15, 2019 at 1:00 pm at Parkview Funeral Chapel, with Reverend Jordan Grant officiating.  The interment will follow at Rosedale Cemetery where Ken will be laid to rest.  As an expression of sympathy, donations in Ken’s name may be made to the Sandra Schmirler Foundation, 18 Burndale Road, Ottawa, ON, K1B 3Y5. It is for babies in need, and would be greatly appreciated. In living memory of Ken, a memorial tree planting will be made by Jones-Parkview Funeral Services. Please see our online book of condolences at www.parkviewfuneralchapel.ca and www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries). Blair Scott, Funeral Director.