YORKTON, Sask. — Hundreds gathered in the Flexi Hall on Oct. 8 to pay tribute to former Saskatchewan deputy premier and cabinet minister Ken Krawetz, remembering him as a devoted public servant, mentor and community leader whose influence stretched far beyond provincial politics.
Family, friends, former political colleagues and community members filled the venue for a memorial service celebrating the life and legacy of the Canora-area politician, who spent nearly two decades in provincial politics and held some of the province's most senior cabinet portfolios.
Among the mourners reflecting on Krawetz's life and legacy was former premier Brad Wall, who described the loss as both personal and profound.
"Well, this is a very sad day. This one hits really close," Wall said.
Wall said Krawetz was much more than a political colleague during their years in government.
"He was so much more than a colleague. He was a mentor to me," he said. "When I became leader of the party, he was the only deputy leader that I served with throughout until he decided to leave politics."
Krawetz served as deputy premier under Wall's government and also held the finance and education portfolios during his legislative career.
Wall praised Krawetz's work in those roles, calling him "an amazing minister of finance" and "a great education minister," but said his greatest legacy was his character.
"Way more important than that is just the quality of man," Wall said. "He had this big servant's heart, just a great way with people."
Wall said Krawetz's leadership qualities often stood out behind the scenes and earned the respect of colleagues across government and the province.
"He was a leader," Wall said. "He might be one of the better premiers we never had in Saskatchewan."
Reflecting on Krawetz's political abilities and commitment to public service, Wall added, "He certainly could have done a better job at it than I did."
Those attending the service heard stories highlighting Krawetz's dedication to education, fiscal stewardship and his roots in rural Saskatchewan. Speakers also recalled his ability to connect with people from all walks of life and his willingness to mentor younger politicians and community leaders.
Throughout the service, tributes focused not only on Krawetz's accomplishments in government but also on his devotion to family, faith and community.
For many in attendance, the large turnout reflected the lasting impact Krawetz had both locally and across Saskatchewan.
Wall said Krawetz's absence will be deeply felt.
"He will be greatly missed."
Krawetz served as the MLA for Canora-Pelly from 1991 until 2016, including nearly a decade as deputy premier and finance minister in the Saskatchewan Party government. His death prompted an outpouring of condolences from political leaders, former colleagues and residents across the province who remembered him as a respected public servant and tireless advocate for Saskatchewan communities.
