Obituary of Kenneth William McLatchie

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth (“Ken”) William McLatchie, at home, in his 73^rd year, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 after a battle with cancer. He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Barb (nee Fetchison), his cherished sons Christopher and Matthew, his dear sister-in-law Chantale Lavoie- Fetchison, his nephews Andre (Cindy) and Nick (Tam) Fetchison, David Barlow, Colin (Robin) and Ian Richardson, and nieces Camille Fetchison and Christine Butters (Luke), as well as many relatives here and abroad. Also missed by many friends and neighbours. Ken is predeceased by his parents, Jeanie and Thomas Ronald McLatchie, and his sisters Linda Thompson and Rhona Richardson.

Born in Paisley, Scotland, Ken immigrated to Canada with his family in 1966 at the age of 12, settling in London. He attended public school at C.C. Carrothers and Tecumseh, and then moved on to South Secondary School where he graduated in 1973. Following a year at Western, Ken attended Fanshawe College, ultimately earning a diploma in Science Laboratory Technology. He worked in Quality Assurance at McCormick Canada from 1980- 2014, first at the Club House Foods division on Rectory Street as a QA Inspector and eventually becoming Quality Assurance Supervisor in 2002 at the company’s new plant at 600 Clarke Side Road following consolidation of McCormick’s London and Toronto facilities. While he retired from full-time employment in 2012, Ken continued to work on contract until 2014.

Ken was an avid collector of many things, and retirement offered him more time for these pursuits. He had a lifelong interest in collecting records and CDs, and had a deep knowledge of music, particularly British 60s music. He also had a love of collecting stamps, which he had returned to in recent years. In addition, Ken developed a love of local history, and he collected items of interest to London and area. Sharing the collecting bug, Barb and Ken enjoyed many hours scouring local thrift shops, antique shows and shops for treasures and special finds. Ken also enjoyed daily walks with family around the neighbourhood, visiting with friends. Any dog he met on these walks received a friendly pat and chin rub.

Ken was a loving husband and father who was devoted to his family. He was a gentle, caring and considerate man who was always willing to offer help to others when it was needed. He faced his cancer diagnosis with strength, courage and determination.

Cremation has taken place, with inurnment at Woodland Cemetery. The family wishes to extend special thanks to the many doctors, nurses and staff at the Verspeeten Cancer Centre at Victoria Hospital and health agencies who cared for Ken during his illness. Memorial donations may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society.