We Remember

BAKER, Koën James

August 15, 2005 — November 9, 2025

Koën was born in Cambridge, Ontario, raised in the neighbouring region of Kitchener-Waterloo and later, Kelowna, BC. He came into this world as a beautiful boy who immediately said “Yes” to life. He loved laughter – especially other people’s. No stranger was ever unworthy of his help or a conversation. The attention he gave you was everyday love. He was impossible to stay mad at.

His natural talent for soccer (football) was applied through hard work and inspired by his love for the game and its form – the outcome was art for us to enjoy. He played for Kelowna’s OFC (formerly Soccaskool), where he grew, was appreciated, and was treated like family.

Koën was loved deeply and unconditionally by his parents, Heather and Nathan. He was a brother to Søren and Thijs, whom he had always nurtured and protected. His pride and devotion to them was unwavering. Thijs was a best friend to him. Søren was always in his arms or on his back when his brother was near.

His heart burned for Lily Cooper – she was his person, his home. Gibson was a rock to him, and they shared the highest loyalty with one another.

He is survived by his father, Nathan (Kristen); mother, Heather (Chad); and brothers Mathijsen and Søren; stepsiblings Jayden, Kylanna, Nate, and Wyatt; girlfriend of 3 years, Lily Cooper; grandparents Kathy, Ralph, Ingrid, Ray, Mark, Janet, Barb, and Terry; and uncles Kyle, Jeff, and Ryan. He was predeceased by his great-grandparents.

Koën James Baker will live on through his brothers, his parents, Lily, grandparents, step-siblings, family and friends as a deeply felt, indelible memory of pure love and joy.

A Memorial Service will be held on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM (PST) at Kelowna Christian Center, 905 Badke Road, Kelowna, BC. 

If you would like to attend Koën’s Memorial Service, CLICK HERE TO RSVP

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Okanagan FC (OFC), okanaganfc.com, a soccer club that was central to Koën’s life, and continues to nurture and inspire kids in Kelowna. A direct link to a donations page can be found here: The Koën Baker Memorial Fund. We know that this is what Koën would have wanted.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.

Service
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM (PST),

Location
Kelowna Christian Center

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Okanagan FC (OFC) - The Koën Baker Memorial Fund Link: okanaganfc.wufoo.com/forms/m16qyymv10eh0lm/

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for BAKER, Koën James is scheduled for SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM (PST),. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Kelowna Christian Center

905 Badke Road, Kelowna, BC

Phone:


Special Requests:

None.


Funeral Pointers:

 


Condolences

  • Janice Spenst says:

    Sending my deepest heartfelt condolences, hugs to everyone

  • Kelly Lehmann says:

    We are so sorry to hear this absolutely devastating news. Koen was the first friend Smitty had to play with when we moved to Kelowna. We loved the laughs we had with your family over our first few years here. Later the boys paths crossed many times through soccer. I can’t imagine the difficult time ahead of your family as you navigate this loss. Our hearts are broken with yours and we are sending all of our love. The Lehmann’s.

  • Tom Cole says:

    Fly high ko! Score some big strikes up there dude! We are all thinking of you! Thanks for always being a great friend and role model for tristin! He always looked up to you! I was pumped to atleast see you guys share the pitch once last time, even if it was at tryouts! Save a spot for tristin and Jax on the pitch. Then some spots for me and Ashley in the stands cheering you guys on. Much love dude!
    Our deepest sympathies for Heather,Nathan and kids. Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys during this difficult time!
    -Tom,Ashley and kids

  • Devony Kasawski says:

    Koen was a great friend and shared the funniest memories

  • Ashley, Jasper & Beckham Helm says:

    Coach Nathan, Heather, Søren & family, We wanted to send our deepest condolences on the profound loss of Koën. Our family is holding you in our thoughts during this exceptionally trying time.

  • Elaine Crebo says:

    My heart aches for a young life so tragically taken. I will always remember this amazingly talented boy in the pink soccer cleats – a year younger than his teammates – running circles around everyone on the field. He was so full of passion. My heartfelt condolences to his family, and friends. .

  • Deborah Duncan says:

    Send my heart felt condolences to the family.. I was privledges enough to meet his grand parents on their flight from Ontario as I was one of the flight crew.. Thinking of the family at this difficult time

  • Carrie and Gerry Checkley says:

    Words cannot express how sorry we are to hear of your families unimaginable loss. Thinking of you all at this difficult time.

  • Dyan Lindner says:

    I am so sorry to hear of Koen’s passing. Such a tragic loss for your families, Nathan and Heather. Thinking of you all during as your navigate this. Gone too soon.

  • Alisa Farr says:

    Our whole family is sending our deepest sympathies. Witnessing Koën and Gibson grow up together has been a gift. Their years of steadfast brotherhood has been unwavering and I know will live on, deep within Gib’s heart and soul.
    Koën never came by the house without making sure he said hello and share his gratitude for whatever time he shared with us or in our home. His presence, his kindness, his thoughtful, deep capacity for conversation and inquisitiveness were always a delight to be around and he will be greatly missed by our family.
    Rest well, Koën.

  • Ellen and Dave says:

    We are thinking of you all at this very difficult time and wish we were not half way around the world and could be there. There are no words.

  • Randall Wight says:

    I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Koën Baker, a remarkable young man I had the privilege to coach. Koën was full of charisma and life—his energy lifted everyone around him. On the field, he played with style and courage, always willing to take chances and express his creativity. He gave everything for his teammates, embodying the true spirit of the game.
    Koën wasn’t just a talented player; he was a cherished teammate and a friend who inspired those around him. His passion and commitment made him a champion in every sense of the word. I will forever remember his smile, his determination, and the joy he brought to the sport we love.
    Rest in peace, Koën. You will never be forgotten.

  • Carla Amichand says:

    On behalf of myself , Jo Jo , Romeo and Armani I want to send you our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. May God comfort you all and hold you all close as you navigate your family’s loss.

  • Janet Thielman Jerry Zister says:

    Nate and Family
    We are so very very sorry for your loss. A remarkable young man always in our hearts.
    We are so sorry for your loss. A remarkable young man, always in our hearts.

  • Agnieszka, Adrian and Paul Bereznicki says:

    Our deepest condolences! We will always remember Koen with love and fondness.

  • Noha Eleraki says:

    Send my heart felt condolences to Heather, Soren and the family.

  • Laurie Adair says:

    Heather Nathan and family, we are sending our heart filled condolences and lots of hugs as you go thru this very difficult time. Lots of love Laurie & Lon Adair 💖😘

  • Melanie Crowder says:

    I am so deeply sorry to hear about your son’s passing. My daughter Bella knew your son but was friends with was friends with Thjis. I can’t imagine what your going through but please know we are thinking of you and we are sending you lots of love and healing blessings. I pray to God that he navigates you through this extremely difficult time. Sending out heartfelt condolences.
    Melanie and Kyle Crowder
    And our daughter Isabella

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