It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our dear friend, Ken Hildahl.

Ken worked at the MGEU as the Director of Operations from 1989-2002 and began his career with the MGEU as a Staff Representative in 1982. Prior to being employed at the MGEU, Ken was an active member, serving as a steward at Manitoba Youth Corrections, President and then Component Director of Local 7, and as 2nd Vice-President from 1979-1982.

“On behalf of the staff and membership of the MGEU, I want to express our deep sadness at the sudden passing of our friend and longtime colleague Ken Hildahl,” MGEU President Lois Wales said. “Ken had a profound impact on everyone he worked with. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hildahl family during this time.

About Ken

Ken was married to wife Judy and they had three sons: Jamie, Jeff and Tyler. He was a friendly, honourable and trusted man who will be remembered for his generosity and commitment to his community.

Hildahl was appointed President and CEO of the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission in June 2009. He also served as executive Vice-President of Manitoba Blue Cross and was the Director of Operations for the Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union. He served on the Winnipeg Football Club board from 2000 – 2010, including five years as Chairman.

"Ken Hildahl was extremely instrumental in moving the MGEU forward as an organization. He championed growing the organization, hiring an organizer to expand the membership. He always had the best interest of the membership in mind,” said MGEU Past-President, Peter Olfert. “We collaborated around the creation of the MGEU resource centre and Ken was also instrumental in modernizing our information systems, to ensure that the Union staff had the right tools to serve our members in the best way possible. But much more than that, Ken was a friend, a comrade. He will be missed.”

A memorial service will be held Thursday, September 1 at 1:00 p.m., at Immanuel Pentecostal Church, 955 Wilkes Ave., Winnipeg, MB. Donations in Ken's memory may be made to Health Sciences Centre Foundation, Hope Project to Revitalize GD6 , 820 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3A 1R9.