Ken Krawetz Obituary, Death – Former Saskatchewan Deputy Premier Remembered
Ken Krawetz, a founding member of the Saskatchewan Party and longtime provincial politician, has died at the age of 75, prompting tributes from Saskatchewan political leaders, former colleagues and members of the communities he served. Premier Scott Moe confirmed his passing and announced that flags at the Saskatchewan Legislature would be lowered to half-mast in his honour.
Krawetz was remembered for a political career that spanned more than two decades and included service as deputy premier, minister of finance and minister of education. He was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature in 1995 and remained a prominent figure in provincial politics until his retirement in 2016.
Remembering Ken Krawetz
Born in Canora, Saskatchewan, on April 15, 1951, Krawetz began his professional life as a teacher and municipal councillor before entering provincial politics. His first election victory came in the Canora-Pelly constituency in 1995.
In 1997, Krawetz joined with three other Liberal MLAs and four Progressive Conservatives to help establish the Saskatchewan Party. The party later formed government in 2007, after which Krawetz served in several cabinet positions, including deputy premier, minister of education and minister of finance.
Throughout his political career, Krawetz was also closely associated with advocacy for Saskatchewan’s Ukrainian community. He played a significant role in efforts to recognize Ukrainian history and helped shepherd the province’s Holodomor Memorial Day Act.
His work included participation in commemorative events, delegations to Ukraine and activities connected with the Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations advisory committee. He also played a leading role in the 2015 dedication of the “Bitter Memories of Childhood” statue in Regina.
Scott Moe Pays Tribute
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe paid tribute to Krawetz following news of his death, remembering him as a person who brought logic, integrity, compassion and common sense to the situations in which he was involved.
Moe recalled Krawetz’s service in different roles, including as a teacher, school board trustee, opposition and government caucus member, cabinet minister and deputy premier. He also highlighted Krawetz’s love for his family, community and province, as well as his lifelong support for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The tribute reflected the broad range of relationships Krawetz developed during his years in public life. His work brought him into contact with constituents, educators, fellow legislators, community organizations and people involved in Saskatchewan’s Ukrainian community.
A Long Career in Public Service
Krawetz’s departure from politics in 2016 marked the end of a lengthy period of provincial public service. His career included both opposition and government roles, allowing him to serve in different capacities as Saskatchewan’s political landscape changed.
Beyond his ministerial responsibilities, his legacy is also connected to community involvement and cultural advocacy. His work on Ukrainian heritage and remembrance became an important part of the public record of his years in Saskatchewan politics.
As news of his death spread, tributes focused on the relationships he built and the service he provided to Saskatchewan over many years.
Flags at the Legislative Building are being lowered to half-mast in recognition of Ken Krawetz. He is remembered by family, friends, former colleagues and members of the Saskatchewan community for a life that included teaching, community service and more than two decades in provincial politics.