Well known Oak Bay businessman, Ken Agate, passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospice on the morning of September 11, 2023. He leaves his sister, Natalie Fisher (Mark), and close friends, Joan Stein and Victor Smith.
Ken was born on February 20, 1944 in Fiji. He grew up in New Zealand before eventually making his way to Victoria, BC, where in Oak Bay he operated The Blethering Place Tea Room for thirty three years. He was also a long time member of Oak Bay tourism. The Tea Room became home to many patrons daily. Ken was a very special person that had the gift of making those around him feel welcomed and included. His charismatic and kind personality left an impression on everyone whom he met.
Twenty three years ago Ken started the Oak Bay Classic car show. Antique cars were his passion. Ken also had the talent of making things beautiful. For example a flower arrangement, setting a table and of course polishing a car to perfection.
Ken will always be cherished, missed and never forgotten. He touched the hearts of those close to him. He will also be remembered by the wonderful staff at Hospice who treated him with genuine care and respect.
At Ken’s request there is no funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Victoria Hospice.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Johnny Popoff
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Keith Fraser A very nice man. Condolences to you Natalie and Mark
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nic Many happy hours of music, food and company!
Nic
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Lyall Atkinson I had the pleasure of doing the car shows for 18 years with Ken and will miss him and our conversations jurying the car shows
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Dani McNee Ken would often pop ’round and have a cuppa with my mom, Jani (Rintoul30/10/2019). I know she enjoyed his visits very much. It’s nice to think they’re having a good chinwag catching up while sipping their tea and nibbling cookies. Rest in Peace Ken
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Paul Seguna A very special person whom I had the honour of knowing as a friend…he will be missed by many!
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Eva Eaton Ken was a much loved member of the community of Oak Bay. He was unfailingly kind. I was privileged to also call him a friend of many years. He will be missed.
I had a sudden impulse today, while on the job delivering flowers in Metro Vancouver, to google Ken’s name, as I had an intuitive feeling that he might have passed recently. It was sad to discover that it is, indeed, true 🙁 May he rest in peace. I had the good fortune of knowing Ken many years ago when I worked at The Blethering Place in Oak Bay from 2003-04. He was certainly a unique and very caring man, who provided me with much-needed wise counsel during a difficult time in my life. Sincere condolences to all his friends and family, near and far…