Kenneth G. Gerken

TOWNSEND: Kenneth Graham Gerken, 85, of West Townsend, passed away peacefully at Lahey Hospital, Burlington, March 19, 2024 surrounded by family. Ken was born on April 25, 1938 in Woodhaven, New York and grew up in Stony Brook, LI, NY. He was the son of Charles W. and Dorothy (Brodt) Gerken. Ken was a beloved husband, brother, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. Ken attended Stony Brook Prep School, Long Island, NY. After graduation from Roanoke College in Salem, VA, he enlisted in the United States Navy Aviation Helicopter Program. He served two tours in Vietnam performing Vertical Replenishment. After four years of active duty he continued to serve in the Navy reserves and retired at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. In 1978 Ken was presented the Navy Commendation medal for heroic achievement. He removed a critically injured pilot from a blazing helicopter wreckage following its crash. Ken waited with the pilot despite intense heat and threatening flames until the arrival of medical personnel and successful transport of the pilot. After military retirement Ken received his Teacher’s Certificate and Master’s Degree from Fitchburg State College. He taught Physical Education in the Shirley and Westford School Systems and officiated high school sports in the region. Ken also flew the corporate helicopter for Simplex Corporation in Gardner. Ken and Susan traveled the world from The Great Wall of China, hiking through Italy, canal boating in England, couriers to Singapore and biking through Holland. They traveled across the country in their RV “Pickle Machine” and spent 20 winters in Key West at Sigsbee Naval Air Station campground. Ken will be most remembered for his generous heart, kindness and service to others. He was an active member of the community of many Townsend organizations: Townsend Ecumenical Outreach, New Beginnings United Methodist Church, Rod & Gun Club, VFW Post 6538, Senior Center and Lions Club. Ken and his wife Susan were honored in 2013 with the William E. May Endowment Award in recognition of “Extraordinary Acts of Generosity” presented by Friends of the Townsend Seniors. Ken leaves his wife of 33 years, Susan; three sons Timothy of Pepperell, Geoff of Shirley, Kenneth Jr. of Ashby, stepchildren Tracey Anderson-Kollar and her husband, Joe, of Bridgeport, CT, Jeff Anderson of Conroe, TX, Carol Anderson-Farwell, Brookline, NH, Michael Anderson and his wife, Kathy, of Houston, TX and Debbie Falconer and her husband, Bill, of Fitchburg; grandchildren Michael, Mary Cate, Leah, Terrance John, Jessica, Haley, Christian, Nicholas; great-grandchildren Tai and Colton; brother Larry Gerken; nephew Matthew Gerken and great-niece Alina Gerken. Ken's family will receive relatives and friends at calling hours, 4- 7PM Sunday, March 24, 2024 at the Anderson Funeral. Home, 250 Main Street (Rte 119) Townsend Center A memorial service will be held 11 AM Monday, March 25, 2024 at New Beginnings United Methodist Church, 265 Main Street, Townsend. Memorial contributions may be made to the NMRS Scholarship Foundation, PO Box 715, Townsend, MA 01469. Interment with military honors will be held privately at Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon

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Kenneth G. Gerken

April 25, 1938 - March 19, 2024