Kenneth Martin Bjorn

August 11, 1968 – June 24, 2025

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Ken Bjorn on June 24, 2025. Ken passed away in his sleep of natural causes. He leaves behind his beloved wife Bobbi-Lynne, loving daughter Kam, devoted mother Myra Bjorn, brother Geoff (Diane), nephews Mitchell and Hayden. Also survived by numerous relatives in Canada and overseas. Predeceased by his father Martti Bjorn, grandparents Margaret and Howard Graham, Kaarina and Jouko Bjorn, uncles Paavo, Seppo, Andy and Esko Bjorn.

Ken attended the W. Ross MacDonald School for the Blind in Brantford during his elementary and early high school years. He graduated from Hillcrest Highschool and continued his education in the Human Resources and Social Work Programs at Confederation College. Ken was born with less than 10% vision but that never held him back. Early on in life Ken enjoyed riding his bike everywhere, learning to cross country ski and moving on to downhill skiing, but his greatest passion was in the swimming pool, where he achieved many accomplishments locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally. His international success allowed him to achieve his goal, selected as a member of the Canadian Team that competed in the 1988 Paralympic Games in Seoul, South Korea, where Ken exceeded all his personal best times. Ken’s athletic achievements led to his induction to the Northwestern Ontario Sport Hall of Fame in 1999.

His independent nature throughout his life served him well. Ken’s love for music was evident in his ability to recall songs and artists with great ease. He also enjoyed travelling, socializing with family and close friends. Ken enjoyed conversing with people and these encounters often led to lifelong friendships.

Ken’s involvement in sporting events, volunteer, and advocacy for people with disabilities continued throughout his life. He had a large group of family, valued friends, teachers, and coaches that were supportive of him throughout his life. Ken’s friendships meant a great deal to him, as these kept him going through the twists and turns of life. Ken most recently found himself content and happily married. He continued volunteering at the Thunder Bay Border Cats games, where he loved to be with people, assisting where needed and yes, socializing being his favourite pastime.

We would like to thank the Thunder Bay Border Cats for the tribute to Ken on July 27, 2025, prior to the start of their home game. We also thank Diane Imrie for her June 28, 2025, article in the Chronicle Journal, detailing Ken’s sporting accomplishments, as a tribute to his lifetime achievements. Lastly, not to forget the many online posts serving as a reminder of Ken’s sporting accomplishments, along with his personal life connections that meant the world to him.

As per Ken’s wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held on July 25, 2025, at 11:00 am at the Current River Community Centre located at 450 Dewe Avenue in Thunder Bay. If friends so desire, donations in Ken’s memory can be made to the charity of your choice.

Ken, your photographic memory, quick witted sense of humour and passion for life will be lovingly remembered, and dearly missed.