Inrig, Ken
Inrig, Ken
August 1, 1945 - October 29, 2024On October 29, 2024, in his 79th year, Ken Inrig passed away at his home in Hamilton. Known affectionately as Benny or Grump, Ken leaves behind his beloved wife of 51 years, Margo Inrig (Lee), and the family they created and adored together. He was the full-on, devoted father of Dave and Jennifer, Matthew, Robert, and Maggie and Sean, as well as a caring brother to Lynn Skillen. Ken was the son of the late James and Mary Inrig and son-in-law to Rowland and Marion Lee.
Ken was also a proud grandfather to Lauren, Ben, and Frankie, with whom he shared many joyful moments fishing, watching hockey, and losing at Go Fish and Monopoly. He will be lovingly remembered by them as “Grumpa.”
He had a special relationship with his entire extended family and will be greatly missed by the Lee, Munn, and Willard families. He was a dynamite brother-in-law to Nancy Lee and Bonnie and Roger Munn, and a beloved uncle to Wendi and Jeff, Andrea and Trevor, Jamie and Allison, Lee and Erika, Katie and Jon, and their children and grandchildren. Predeceased by his brother-in-law Dave Lee, with whom he shared a bond as close as brothers, he was also a fiercely loyal and loving friend to many who will miss him dearly. A generous stand-in and stand up Dad to those who needed it, Ken opened his home whenever it was called for. A devoted pet owner, he cherished many pets over the years, including Wally, Dover, Holly, and Faith.
Ken was a builder and planner, both at work and at home, with a long and successful career—but above all, he was a family man who put everyone else first. Ken graduated from Westdale High School and always loved and maintained his Hamilton roots. He attended Laurier University, and in his 70s, he returned to school at McMaster (with his “anchor girl” Maggie dutifully typing his handwritten papers).
Everyone who knew Benny recognized his love for Lake Nipissing, where he spent over 50 years of his life. Boating and fishing rivaled only his love for a Muskoka chair and a glass of red wine. His zest for life shone through in countless hobbies, from many years spent at the Hamilton Thistle Club playing squash and stirring up general shenanigans, to hockey, skiing, ski patrolling, music, theater, and fiercely competitive games of euchre (his infamous “crying towel” is now officially retired). He instilled these interests and supported many others by being a hands-on Dad, frequently attending sports events and taking family trips. Dad’s greatest success is his family he leaves behind.
A celebration of Ken’s life is being planned with details forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Hamilton SPCA would be greatly appreciated by the family.
