A celebration in thanksgiving for Kelly Walker

The image of Kelly Walker looks down on husband Ray Harsant as emcee Judy Maddren looks on during Ray’s welcoming speech of gratitude. Walker's family and friends hosted a celebration of life for the late musician on June 1, welcoming those near and far to share what he meant to them.

Hundreds of people gathered on June 1 at Avondale United Church not to mourn, but to celebrate a life well lived in Kelly Walker, a prominent citizen, musician, husband, stepfather. They came from near and far to be there to share their time with Walker, a man of compassion and humour who touched so many lives.

In testament to the man he was, there were many volunteers that contributed to the event. The service was led by Rev. Keith Reynolds with musical direction by Dan Van Winden and Alexander Cann. Music by Ben Bolt-Martin on cello, Eric Charbonneau on Piano, Trumpeteer Justin Forte, Stratford Concert Choir and Avondale Senior Choir.

In welcoming the many friends and family to the service, Matthew Harsant, son of Kelly’s husband Ray Harsant, looked over the crowd and said, “Right now, I look out at hundreds of different expressions of Kelly Walker. Every one of them true and unique and layered. The lifelong stories and relationships, the newer ones, the easy ones, the complicated ones; love.”

Music and reflection played a large part in the service with an opening prelude by Ben Bolt-Martin and Eric Charbonneau, an opening prayer and the hymn “Gather Us In.” Karen Rempel gave the readings of Exodus 3:13-14 and Matthew 5: 13-16.

Kelly’s brother Michael offered reflections of his brother. “Kelly’s kindness, love and generosity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. His unwavering spirit, warm style and gentle nature brought comfort and joy to family, friends and the community alike. The legacy of compassion and laughter he leaves behind will continue to live on in our hearts.”

Neighbour and close friend Larry Beare spoke warmly about Kelly and the many lives he touched and how Kelly would say, “Life is for the living, he would remind me, so live it, kid.”

Seana McKenna spoke about how she had come to know Kelly as the very cool folk-rock hippy Dominican Friar priest that sang guitar and gave communion joyously. She passionately read a piece selected by Kelly that had been written by his friend. It began,

“In the heart of the universe is a new soul. A fresh source of light and love joining in the resounding heartbeat of eternity.”

After the service was ended, the group transitioned to the Arden Park Hotel for a celebratory program that was expertly emceed by Judy Maddren and included performances of “Countenance, as Words Will Bend to Prayer” spoken by David Stones then sung by Maria Soulis and accompanied by Tim Elliott. Loreena McKennit sang “Down by the Sally Gardens,” followed by a rousing “What I did for Love” by Barbara Steed Young accompanied by Eric Charbonneau.

“I hope the afternoon of expressions of love reflect the light that is in each of us, and my hope is that you let your own light shine brightly throughout the entire day,” said husband Ray in his welcoming speech.

Many old friends met, many new friendships were forged, all with the common opening line, “So how did you know Kelly?” Stories flourished and the love in the room was palatable as hundreds of people remembered Kelly.