Obituary of Kenneth G. Valen
Valen, Kenneth Grant
August 1, 1955- August 15, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth Grant Valen on August 15th, 2024 following a stroke.
Ken was born in Moorcrest, Mascouche, Quebec (in the foothills of the Laurentians). He is survived by his loving wife Tara Anne Valen, who was at his side; his sister Greta Valen-Groves (Larry Groves) and his three children and five grandchildren. His sister Linda Valen-Herb (William Herb) and their son Kristopher Herb (Malvi Spaleny-Herb), niece Anna, and nephew Alexander.
Growing up in Moorcrest, Ken enjoyed all the Nordic activities, including feasting on traditional Norwegian cuisine with his family. Before he went to , NSCAD University; he spent 6 months visiting Norway, where he was very inspired by much of the jewelery designs he saw there.
On a family vacation with his parents, Inger Marie and Odd Jarl, to St. Andrews by the Sea, New Brunswick, around 1970, Ken's parents were awestruck by the beautiful landscape and the town of St. Andrews reminded them of their former home in Bergen, Norway. They moved there and established St. Andrews Pottery, which has evolved into Serindipinart which Tara and Ken operated to this day.
Ken enjoyed being near wilderness, flowing streams, rivers, and the sea. His favourite hobby was reading books on world history and geography.
Ken was very creative and always had a strong passion for the arts, culture, mentoring, and creating silver and gold jewelry with his hands. After he graduated from college as a goldsmith, he began making jewelry for Serendipinart Gallery, the store he and Tara owned. He was an exceptional craftsman and loved the interaction with their many customers and friends who often had him make custom made earrings, wedding rings, and necklaces for them. Ken brought joy, laughter, and happiness to everyone he met.
Ken taught for several years in the Jewelry/Metal Arts program at NB college of Craft and Design in Fredericton. He was also invited to teach at the Arctic Metal Arts College in Iqaluit, Nunavut for 3 years. He was not intimdated by the extreme winter weather but embraced it, wearing the traditional inuit handcrafted outer clothing.
A life gone too soon. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.
‘Yet once more I shall die as human. Reborn, I will soar high with the angels above. And when I sacrifice my angel soul, I shall be more than mortal mind can know.’ -Rumi
