Passed away suddenly on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the age of 62. Beloved husband of Kim (McWhirter) Higgins, sharing 35 wonderful years together and married for 31 of them. Loving father of Kody Higgins, and Taylor Higgins. Adored papa of Jack, Leo; Evelyn, Berkley, and Ellianna. Dear brother of Deb Oliver and brother-in-law of Isabel White (Len), Tracey and Paul McArter, and Brian White (Cathy). Cherished son-in-law of Gloria McWhirter and Doug Murray. Fondly remembered by his nephews, Curtis (Michelle), Kane (Jess), Ryan (Taylor), Konrad, and David, niece, Nicole (Catlin) and by his many great nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents John and Marilyn (Goll) Higgins, brother-in-law John Oliver and father-in-law Elvin McWhirter.
Ken had a deep love for the outdoors, spending countless hours hunting and fishing whenever he could. For many years, he dedicated his time and courage as a volunteer firefighter with the Brussels Fire Department and gave back to his community as a proud member of the Optimist Club. A true sports enthusiast, he was dedicated to baseball and hockey, proudly refereeing and umpiring for many years. Whether at the arena or the ball field, his booming voice, quick wit, and sense of humour made him a familiar and cherished presence. Above all, Ken adored his children and grandchildren. They were his greatest joy and meant the world to him. His caring nature, unmistakable laugh, and fondness for a Black Label in hand will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Cremation to take place. A private family service will be held at a later date.
A public celebration of Higgi’s life will be held at the BMG Community Centre, 800 Sports Drive, BRUSSELS on Friday, October 17th from 3 – 6 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations to an Education fund for Ken’s grandchildren – payable to Kim Higgins, Blyth-Brussels Minor Hockey, or Brussels Minor Ball in Ken’s memory would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Carl and Susan Bondi
So sorry we couldn’t get to the celebration of life. We were sad to hear about Ken’s passing. Such a huge loss for his family and the community. A great guy with a big smile and a bigger heart. He’ll be missed. Our sincere condolences.
Randy Rock
Kim and family, so sorry for your loss. Higg and I were freinds for a long time, but I really got to know him when I briefly worked with him at Morris/Turnberry. We had a lot of laughs in that short time, too many to list but the best part of it was I got to know him on a different level. I learned that it was family first from him, and he absolutely loved his family and friends. I am honoured to have been a part of his life and his brutal honesty. There truly was only one and only Higg in this world RIP Higgi.
Randy Rock and Family
Mandy
Love and hugs** Kim, Kody, Taylor..
and family and friends, so sorry to hear this. So many great memories. Higgi will be very missed. Thinking of you extra. I regret not being able to make it this afternoon, sending all our sympathy and hugs**
Love from,
Mandy & kiddos
Marlene & Murray Hall
Kim, Cody & Taylor we are so sorry for your loss, Ken will be missed by so many people he touched so many lives and had such a big heart sending you heart filled condolences
John Lowe
Kim, Kody & Taylor and Deb, Isabel, Tracey, Brian and Gloria:
It just made one’s body sink when you heard the news that Hig had died. I always kept an eye out for him at events, so you could be prepared with your response to his comment(s). Of course, they were always followed up with his hearty laugh.
I’m very sorry. It is very sad.
I’ll certainly miss him as will all of you. He won’t be forgotten. The stories will live on.
Glen Hurst
Kim and family, Was so shocked to hear of Ken’s passing, always had a lot of refereeing with Ken
Rose Marie, Mike, Kathy Bishop and family
Kim and your entire family,
Our hearts goes out to each and every one of you. We will always remember Ken’s affectionate laugh and kind spirit. His kindness and sense of humor touched so many lives. The memories you share will keep him in your hearts.
Dorene Cardiff
Kim, Kody and Taylor
So very sorry to hear of Ken’s untimely passing – a devastating loss for your family and the community.
He was always friendly and smiling and took time to chat.
Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Mike & Yvonne Vader
Our deepest condolences to you Kim, Kody and Taylor. He was a great husband, father and friend. He touched many people, from playing, coaching and refereeing hockey and baseball. He shared his knowledge and was always willing to lend an hand. Unfortunately I am not able to be there today as we have a family wedding, but please know you all are in our thoughts and prayers. Please raise a black label for me
Brad & Christine Knight
Kim and family
Very sorry to hear about Ken. Through his past involvement with the Brussels Fire Department and with Brussels minor hockey and fastball, he gave a lot back to the community and will be missed. Our thoughts are with you and your family. Brad & Christine Knight
Murray &Shelley Keffer
Saddened greatly, to hear of the passing of Higgi…bus riding, school troubles, working together, fellow firefighter, every time around you was always enjoying. Thoughts are with your family at this hardened time.
John&Lisa Huether
We are so sorry and saddened to hear of Higgi‘s passing. Such an amazing, kind and friendly guy!! He will be missed by so many!!
Thinking of you, Kim, Cody, Taylor and all those sweet grandbabies.
Xxxx
Pat & Cathy Melady
Heartfelt sympathy is extended to all of Kenny’s family and friends. We always enjoyed running into him and catching up. May you be surrounded by his love and wonderful memories.
Kelly Tiffin
Kim, Kody, Taylor and family
Our sincere condolences to you all. This is a huge loss for your family and the community and for us, his family at MT. We hope you find comfort in knowing how much he was loved by everyone he met. Higgi will be missed by many. Treasure the memories.
Gary & Beth Earl
Dear Kim and family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family now and in the days ahead. Higgi and Gary worked together at the Grey Township shed and there never was a dull moment. He was a great guy.
Gary and Beth Earl
Tracy (Bosman) McLennan
Dear Kim, Kody, Taylor, and families,
Words cannot express the depth of emotions that were felt by us when we heard of Higgi’s passing. For me, not only was Ken a friend, he was literally family. There hasn’t been a time when Ken wasn’t in our lives. I have so many wonderful memories of Kenny (including singing at your wedding), but the one that still causes myself, my sister, and my parents to smile the most was when Tina and I made up a chant for Ken when he was a teenager, and we were children. Ken played ball for my dad in Winthrop, and during one game, Higgy got up to bat, and Tina and I, at the top of our voices chanted, “Come on Higgi, you can do it! Put a little wiggle to it!”…..he hit a grand slam over the fence! Ken still recalled that moment a few weeks ago when they were catching up. He will be missed by so many people in the Brussels community because he was such an important part of it. Our wee village has lost such a great human. My deepest sympathies. May all the wonderful memories you have of him help you through these days and weeks ahead. Thinking of you all.
Tracy (Bosman), Paul, Sabryn, & Jocelyn McLennan
Doug (Cooner) and Nancy Anstett
Sending our sincere sympathies at this tragic time. He was truly one of a kind and will be missed by family and friends
Norm Dobson
To the higgins fAMILY SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSSHIGGY IS GOING TO BE MISSED
Mary Ann Thompson
Kim, so very sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. Keep the memories close to your heart.
Brian and Dianne Huether
Deepest sympathy to Kim and family. Ken was a great fellow. He will truly be missed. Remember the good times.💕
Dennis Knox
Sorry to hear that Higgi has left this world! I played hockey with and against him and also refereed with him. He was a great person and always was in a joyful mood. Hold onto your great memories!
Dennis & Patty Knox
Don Ruttan
So Sorry for your loss. I have lots of good memories from our referee days. Higgi will be missed in the community.
Shanna & Greg Core
Shocked is an understatement! We are saddened to hear about Ken’s passing. He was a camping friend and a firefighter who I had the privilege to dispatch for. Kim and family, we are so sorry for your loss. He will be missed. ❤️
David Gray
From the Andy Gray Family (Jackie, Marion, and David). We are so sorry to hear of Ken’s sudden passing. As relatives always liked to hear of dad working with Ken. He referred hockey games for my boys and I was always sure to let him know I was there.
From The Andy Gray Family ( Jackie, Marion, and David) our thoughts are with you all.
Tim Cook
Hi Kim
Sorry to hear the passing of Ken. Our Condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tim & Marilyn Cook.
Lillian Bode
Kim and family so sorry to hear of Ken passing.Condolences to you and his loved ones.You are in my thoughts and prayers.May his memory give you peace at this difficult time.
Wayne & Angie Dunn
The world lost a great guy last Thursday. Higgy was one of a kind. He absolutely adored his kids and grandkids and he was such a sport enthusiast whether it be playing ball, umping, reffing or coaching. We always had the best of times with Higgy whether it was at a campfire at FP or when he came to watch our kids play hockey. He had a great sense of humour and always had a sarcastic, cheeky comment. Cheers to the legend himself, Mr. Black Label. Sending our sympathy to Kim, Kody, Taylor, and those precious grandkids who lost their papa far too soon.
The Brown Familt
Kenny was such a nice kid…His Mom Marilyn & I were next doors neighbours..Farms were close so we became dear friends …Sending condolences to Kenny’s family & close friends..Wayne and Lorna (Bolt) Brown
Mark and Tracey Swart
Kim and family,
Higgi always took the time to stop and say hello, no matter where you were or who he was with. He epitomized small-town values—kindness, connection, and community. Whether you knew him well or just in passing, he made you feel welcome. His warmth and genuine spirit touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Kim Waldie
My sincere condolences to Kim and family. You’re in my thoughts and prayers .
Doug & Debbie Shaw
We are so sorry to hear about Higgi’s passing. He was one of a kind that was there whenever he was needed. Loved his big smile, big laugh and always his sense of humor. May the memories you have give you strength during this difficult time.
Rick Boon
My deepest condolences to Kim and the rest of the family on the passing of a great man. He welcomed me with open arms when I first started playing for the Sr.”A” Crusaders in 1991. He always had your back and a good laugh to share with me and all of his teammates. His loss will be felt by all those who shared his passions and friendships. R.I.P. Higgi.
Doug & Heather Montgomery
Kim and Family,
We were shocked to hear of Ken’s passing. We hope the years of memories help you through the difficult days ahead. There was never a dull moment when in the presences of Ken.
RIP Higgi.
Doug & Heather Montgomery
doug conley
Ken was a good friend to many of us , a proud father a loving husband and dedicated family man.We will miss him!
MVP of the game of life!
Jerry & Ann Ward
Sending our deepest sympathies to Kim, Kody, Taylor and grandchildren❤️
He is going to be missed so much by us all.
Aunt Ann & Uncle Jerry and family.
Susan Boivin
I remember Ken fondly from our high school days! Such a sweet, warm person who was always friendly and smiling. My sincere condolences to his family.
Joan Cardiff
Kim and Family.
Ken always took the time to say hello and have a chat. He left a lasting impact in the community for sure. Thinking of you at this sad time
Joyce King
Dear Higgins and McWhirter Families, So sorry to read of Ken passing. Although I did not knows him personally, my mother, Jeanne Ireland taught both Ken and Debbie in Kindergarten years ago. The Higgins family was part of the fabric of Brussels during my growing up years. Ken chose to remain in Brussels, marrying and raising a family there. His involvement in minor sports and as a volunteer fireman made him a valuable asset to his community. May this time of sadness and sorrow give way later to memories and stories bringing smiles to your lips instead of tears to your eyes. Sincerely, Joyce King (Ireland)
Ken Jamieson
Will never forget his smile and laugh, condolences to the family.
Murray & Marlene Fischer
Dear Kim & Family. Thinking of you at this very difficult time. “Higgi” will be greatly missed in your hearts & in the community. Treasure your many wonderful memories.
Sending hugs.
Murray & Marlene Fischer
Dear Kim & Family. Thinking of you at this very difficult time. “Higgi” will be greatly missed in your hearts & in the community. Treasure your many wonderful memories.
Sending hugs.
Colleen and Chris Michie
Higgi was not only a great snowplow operator, but he was also my weatherman, letting me know when I should stay home from work because of the weather. I will miss our 5am chats with you as you drove by in the snowplow. Maybe that’s why you had to be pulled out of the ditch a time or two!
More importantly, he was a great friend. We will miss his care, concern, wit and sarcasm.
Kim, Cody and Taylor, you have such great support from family, friends and the entire community during your time of grief. We are all here for you, just as he would have been here for anyone else.
Bob and Janet Hulley
All our sympathies to the whole family. Quite a shock to the community to. He will be sorely missed
Rhonda and Bruce Fischer
Kim and family. What a good, funny kind, person to have been able to share your lives with. Fond memories of Higgi refereeing over the years. Along with you, Brussels shares your grief. Big hug to all of you.
Gary Gravett
So sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. He was a great gentleman and had many dealings with him over the years. The world just lost another great guy.
Kim and family please remember the great times you had with him over the years.
Jason Hulzebos
Dear the Higgins Family,
Hi its Jason Hulzebos from Blyth,Ontario I’m sorry for your guys loss.
Mike and Darlene Roeder
Deepest sympathy to you and your family Kim
Corey and Trevor Pocaluyko
So very sorry that Higgi was taken too soon.
So many memories that all end with us thinking of that big grin, laugh and great sense of humor.
Always seemed to put family, friends and his team ahead of himself. Will be missed but not forgotten.
Sandra Machan
Kim & family
So sorry to hear of Higgi’s passing. He was a great guy! Hold your memories close to your heart!
Liz Herman
Thinking of Ken’s Family at this very sad time. My Husband Floyd taught Ken at “Grey Central” and thought alot of him! Sincerely: Liz Herman
Candi Drennan, Kendrick & Maverick McDougall
Kim, Kody and Taylor I am so sorry to hear about Ken you guys were amazing neighbours for a few years. Ken was a great guy and will be missed. When I was younger he would umpire my baseball games when we played in Brussels great memories
Nanci Ducharme
Kim, Kody, Taylor & Grandchildren. Higgy was a regular at our home growing up and there are a lot of good memories. He has left a huge legacy in our town and in the lives of a lot of people in this town. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
[email protected]
Brian and Marlene
My sympathy to Kim and her family.
Marty & Anne Marie Bedard
Kim, Cody, Taylor and family.
The news of Ken’s passing was heartbreaking. Ken was truly one of a kind from his smile, his laugh his dedication to the fire department but most importantly his devotion to his family. He took pride in each one of you and we want to thank you for sharing him with us during his years fighting fires, saving lives and being a true friend. He will forever hold a place in our hearts.
Jim Lewis
I was shocked to read this news as I have known Higgi for years of playing ball against and later umpiring with him in Brussels and Mitchell. On behalf of the Exeter Braves fastball team I wish to send you are condolences to family and friends of a great happy go lucky guy!!!
Jim Lewis
Karen Pennington
Kim and Family
I’m so sorry to hear the news of Higgi, my condolences to all.
Higgi sure will be missed by the community. He was a part of my boys life in hockey, to hunting.
Hugs to you all
Karen and boys
Steve & Patti Nixon
Please accept our heartfelt condolences at this time.
Dorothea Ducharme
My condolences to all the Higgins family at this sad time
Sharon Holthuysen
So very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family at this time. Sincerely Harrie and Sharon Holthuysen
Dorothea Ducharme
My condolences to all Kenny’s family
Wendy Dillon
I went to public school with Ken. He was one of the nicest kids I knew. From all the comments I have seen, he continued to be a great person. My condolences to all of the family.
Linda Bird
My condolences to all of Ken’s family
Shirley Ann & Mike Boven
Kim & family
We are so sorry to hear about Higgi. He will be missed by many!
Kevin Varley
Kim, Koby& Taylor and family
I am so sorry for your loss. It is so hard to believe that Higgi is gone. I had a great chat with him a few weeks ago and Higgi was his joyful self. Had a lot of great times with Higgi, drank a lot of Black Label with him and reffed a lot of hockey with him and enjoy watching the Brussels tiger games. You knew when Higgi was around with his Bold voice. I know Higgi will be dearly missed by family and the Community. All the best in these difficult times and please cherish the good time you had with Higgi. Take Care
Gunner & Cindy Jarvis
So sorry for your loss Higgi will be one nobody will ever forget
Rest easy big guy
Sharen & Randy Zinn
My deepest sympathies Kim and families. He was one of the best . Ken will be truly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of meeting him.
Janet Marston
Such a great guy ballgames won’t be the same cherish his memories
Jim and Kathy Stephenson
Kim, Kody, Taylor and Ken’s family,
Our sincere symptoms to all of you.
Ken was someone who brought a
smile to everyone’s face. He will be missed.
Whitney and Kyle Quipp
Kim, Kody, Taylor and grand kids, Sending my deepest sympathies, hold all those special moments close to you and know he will forever be watching closely over you
Ron & Nicole Stevenson
Kim,Kody & Taylor
We are so very sorry and heartbroken for your loss. Ken was a very dear and special friend, always checking in and wanting to help. We created so many wonderful times with “Higgi” and your family from camping and all the activities with the kids Over the years.
Love, Ron, Nicole Stevenson and Family
Todd and Darlene Wheeler
We are very shocked and saddened to hear this news, our deepest sympathies to Kim and family. He was a friend to everyone and a very important part of our community. He will be missed and well remembered.
Paul & Barb Mutter
Our sympathy is extended to Higgi’s family and close friends. The entire community will miss him.
Gary Terpstra
So sorry for your loss. Higgi was a great guy. Big loss to the community
Gregg and Bonnie Ward
Condolences to you and your family 🫂he was taken way to soon 🙏 🫂
Ryan and Colleen Ranney
Kim, Cody, Taylor and grandbabes we are so sad for you all and so sorry for your loss. Ken had such great love for yous it was so easy to see ( including making sure Kim, that all your balloons were perfect for your birthday this past year. He will be greatly missed .
Juliet sale
Sending prayers and loads of love to you and your family God bless you all at this time of unimaginable sorrow heaven has gained a beautiful soul!
Cheryl Burchill
The boys and I thinking of you at this terrible time, hugs to you all, he will be missed by so many that is something to carry with you always.
Lesley Heipel
Our deepest condolences Kim to you and your family! No words will ever take away your pain. You have a wonderful group of friends and family..lean on them. Talk about all the great memories together. Hug your kids and grand babies as often as you need as Higgi lives on through them. Hugs my friend! Lesley Heipel and Bob Wilkieson
Brenda Nicholls
So sorry for your loss Kim and family.
Higgi was a great guy and you will have many happy memories to remember and help you through the tough days ahead.
Our condolences. Greg, Brenda , Paul Dwaine and Chad Nicholls. 💕
Mark and Bonnie Gropp
Sincerest sympathies on the loss of your loved one
John van Vliet
My deepest sympathies to all Ken’s family. He certainly will be missed. He was a dedicated volunteer with minor ball and hockey. He was one our greatest supporters and friend as a member of Brussels Minor Hockey executive and then Blyth Brussels Minor Hockey. Thanks for being you Higgi!!!
lorraine bromley
Our Ball Diamond dates were always fun and deep analysis always followed ! Brian knew him better than both my sports boys he pumped and reffed them too. We will miss him greatly and every ball diamond will have a whole in it forever more
Love the Brian and Lorraine Bromley’s and boys
Doug and Wilma Rathwell
Sincere sympathy Kim and family Higgi will be missed on the ball field and in the community.
Rest in Peace our friend
Greg and Brenda Smith
Kim and family Greg and I are sorry for your loss Ken was a great guy with a great smile and will be missed by many
Kari Mclellan
Kim, Taylor and Cody my deepest sympathies to you all.
Leslie Groot
Kim, Cody, Taylor & grandkids. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I’ve known Ken for many years dating back to our younger years, camping at family paradise and on the ball field. So grateful for the visit we had just a few weeks ago while he was umpiring in Mitchell. One of a kind, wonderful guy and always with a smile and a friendly conversation. One of my favorites..he will be missed by many.
Lisa Hamilton
My deepest sympathies to you all in the loss of such a great man! You will be forever remembered and missed Higgi.
Linda Cameron
Sorry to hear of Ken’s passing, keep the memories close to your heart, know he will be watching over you. Love and prayers Kim and family
Steve and Linda Cameron
Brian and Jo-Anne Workman
We are so very very sorry for the family, friends and the community for the loss of Higgi.
So many warm and loving memories!