Kenneth Allen Publicover
60, of Halifax, passed away peacefully in the arms of his wife and daughter on Friday, October 6th, 2017. There could never be a good time to lose a beautiful man like Ken, but Thanksgiving at least seems appropriate. Gratitude is a theme that is present for so many of us as we consider how fortunate we’ve been for Kenny’s presence in our lives. It’s also how he lived his life; ever grateful for his family, friends, and many blessings. He maintained that positive lens throughout his journey with cancer. Full of integrity, quiet wisdom and humour, Ken was an amazing partner to his wife of 30 years, Karen Wentzell. It was plain to see he cherished her, and the feeling was (and is) mutual. Their love expanded exponentially to include their daughter Aria who was truly the apple of her Dad’s eye. He was so proud of the beautiful, kind, and vibrant young woman she has become, similar in so many ways to Ken’s beloved Mother, Betty. Professionally, Ken leaves an impressive legacy in the realm of television news in Canada. Initially a talented cameraman, he shifted seamlessly into the role of Control Room Director, eventually becoming one of the best in the country. Ken played a significant role in the development and launch of CTV Halifax’s Live at 5, a ground-breaking show which was the first walk-and-talk news broadcast in Canada. It would go on to inspire other such programs across North America. Ken moved to CBC in 1989, where he helped launch Newsworld, the first 24 hour TV news channel in Canada. In the past three decades, he not only survived the ever changing landscape of technical production, he excelled; eventually training a whole generation of directors in CBC newsrooms across the country.
In a pressure-cooker job, Ken somehow always managed to keep his cool. Although his mind was extremely sharp, his tongue never was. He was well-loved by colleagues from all chapters of his career, many of whom have rallied around his family during this challenging time. Ken’s journey through cancer was made more comfortable by the tremendous care provided by a wide range of medical professionals, all of whom were astounded and inspired by the grace with which he accepted his prognosis. The family would like thank the medical community for their compassion and expertise. Ken is survived by his wife Karen Wentzell, daughter Aria Publicover, mother Betty (Betts) Richardson and step-father Fred Richardson, brother Gerald (Linda) Publicover, sister Dana Publicover (Paul Duncan). Ken was pre-deceased by his father, Graham (Marie) Publicover. Ken always felt enriched by his “blended” family of siblings. He is also survived by Sheri Richardson, Bob (Susan Clark) Richardson, Paul (Donna) Richardson, Dianne (Bert) McLaughlin, Donna Carpenter, and Carol Carpenter. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ken’s name to The Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Saturday, October 14th, at 1pm in St. Matthew’s United Church, 1479 Barrington St, Halifax. Reception to follow from 3-5pm at Old Ashburn Golf Club (3250 Joseph Howe Dr, Halifax). Online condolences may be sent to Ronald A. Walker Funeral Home at www.rawalker.ca. The pain of our parting has been eased by the extraordinary love and support shown by our friends, and our collective sense of loss has been profoundly balanced by your kindness. We thank you.

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