Published October 6, 2015
Ken MacKenzie, will retire on 4 Nov 15 after serving 35 years of loyal and dedicated service to the Federal Public Service and within the CME Branch (see bio attached). A luncheon will take place on 4 Nov 15 at 19 Wing Comox, Officer's Mess at 11:30. RSVP to Ms. Kaitha Binney at mailto:Kaitha.Binney@forces.gc.ca before 23 Oct 15. Any well wishes, stories or anecdotes can be sent to Ms. Dianne Engebretson at mailto:Dianne.Engebretson@forces.gc.ca
Ken MacKenzie started his Public Service career in Holberg in October of 1979 where he spent 10 years in various positions in Wing Construction Engineering. Starting as a labourer, then advancing to a trades helper and finally a painter for his final 7 years. During his time in Holberg he actively volunteered at the fire hall as a Fire Fighter, Deputy Auxiliary Fire Chief and the Auxiliary Fire Chief. Throughout Ken’s career he has always been the guy to get things done or put his hand up when no one else would. As a result Ken was acknowledged for his efforts on several occasions receiving three Commanding Officer Certificates of Appreciation for his volunteer contributions for organizing community events. It was in Holberg where he met and married his wife Juanita. Ken closed out CFS Holberg and moved on to CFB Chilliwack where he filled a painter’s position within the CE section from 1989 to 1995. Ken received his Paint Trade Qualifications in 1991 the same year his son Manning was born. Aptly referred to as the “Black Cloud” of base closures, Ken closed out Chilliwack and deployed to CFB Comox in September of 1995 as a painter in the structural shop. It was in 2009 that Ken changed gears and was promoted into his current position as Operations Planner for WCE. Ken’s work in Comox did not go unnoticed as he received several letters of appreciation and was awarded Civilian of the Quarter. His volunteer contributions to hockey are extensive as well. He has been a coach, mentor and organizer and was recognition by the BC Minor Hockey Association with an award for his outstanding service to Vancouver Island for his devoted volunteer efforts to minor hockey. Despite his record from his previous posts, we are happy to report that Comox is thriving with no talks of closures.
Ken and his wife Juanita plan to stay in the Comox Valley and appreciate all that the valley has to offer. The CME family would like to wish Ken and his family a happy retirement fully knowing that he will leave a void that will be difficult to fill. There will be a retirement celebration held at the Officer’s Mess in Comox B.C on November 4th at 11:30. RSVP to Ms. Kaitha Binney at mailto:Kaitha.Binney@forces.gc.ca before 23 Oct