Ken Gabruck

It is with profound sadness that we announce that Ken Gabruck, beloved father, brother, friend, coach, teacher and ultimate sports fan passed away after a very brief illness on April 4, 2024.

Ken was born to Stan and Anna Gabruck in Camrose, AB on May 12, 1951, and spent his early days growing up on the family farm north of Daysland.  In 1973 he graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Education degree with a focus on physical education.  He married Lana Leeb and they moved to Taber, AB where he started teaching and coaching at St Mary’s School.  He dedicated 38 years of full-time teaching at St Mary’s and even after retiring in 2011 he continued as a substitute teacher until 2023.

Ken had a passion for not only teaching but coaching as well.  Between volleyball, basketball, and softball he coached close to 100 high school teams during his time as a teacher and even after retirement he continued to coach until 2020.

Ken was a die-hard Boston Bruins fan and a lifelong coach and athlete.  He shared his passion for sports with his family and his wide circle of friends.  At a young age he played baseball and basketball as well as hockey and was still playing hockey multiple times a week and slo-pitch every season until 2024.  He also enjoyed golfing, gathering around a table playing cards, and sitting on the deck enjoying the sunshine while listening to music with friends and family. 

Ken started Classic Awards in the early 2000s and was behind many personalized medals, plaques, trophies, and ribbons for young athletes all over Alberta, he took great pride in ensuring each design was unique and each award was without flaw.

Ken was a proud dad and mentor to his two daughters.  When they were younger, he enjoyed coaching them in the gym and on the field, as well as cheering them on from the stands.  Some of his favorite memories were the trips they took to watch NCAA basketball games in support of his Gonzaga Bulldogs.

He was predeceased by his parents Stan and Anna; two brothers William and Robert; and nephew Brian.

Ken is survived by his two daughters Allison (Jeffrey) and Kristy (Justin); three brothers Donald (Diane), Terrance, and Richard (Cecilia); sisters-in-law Betty and Liz; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Ken is also survived by his close friends from “Breakfast Club”, many long-time friends from his career in education, and his teammates from both hockey and softball. 

Family members would like to thank his many friends for their support.  In lieu of flowers they ask that you consider donating to the Friends of St Mary’s School for Athletics or volunteering your time to youth sports.

 A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ken Gabruck, please visit our floral store.