Kenneth A. Carpenter
Feb. 22, 1945 – July 17, 2020
On July 17, 2020, Kenneth Arthur Carpenter, avid Red Sox fan; U.S. Air Force veteran; husband and father, entered his heavenly home at age 75.
Ken was born on February 22, 1945 in Southbridge, Massachusetts to Harold and Blanche Carpenter. He was preceded in death by his parents and Marcia Dion Carpenter, his high school sweetheart and wife of 39 years. He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Elizabeth DeMasters Carpenter; two sons, Timothe Carpenter (wife Robin, daughter Ella) and Joshua Carpenter (wife Kate, children Daisy and Max); Dr. David DeMasters (wife Amy and children Joshua and Chelsea) and Danielle Demasters Uthe (husband Jeff and children Rachel and Lexi); and numerous loving relatives and friends.
Ken had a passion for history and geography which led him to visit all 50 states. Through his love of aviation, he became an active member of the Gulf Coast Wing of the CAF which operates and maintains the B-17 Flying Fortress “Texas Raiders”. Ken also spent many hours watching his beloved Boston Red Sox play baseball and was able to see them win 4 World Series Championships and travelled to Boston for the 2013 Championship parade.
A celebration of life was held by the family at his home in Columbia, Virginia.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ken’s memory to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (lls.org) or the CAF Gulf Coast Wing Texas Raiders, https://b17texasraiders.org/index.php/donation.
You were the best father and friend I could have ever asked for. I miss you so much already.
A wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be sorely missed by all. We’ve known Kenny and family for 48+ years and have many great memories of our times together…..parties, graduations, camping……
Especially camping!!! We keep these memories close to our hearts. Love to all the family❤️❤️
The Staff and membership of the Commemorative Air Force – Gulf Coast Wing extend their heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the Carpenter family. We will fondly remember Ken and the contributions he made to the Wing and the B-17 Flying Fortress, Texas Raiders. Ken was working to help us even into his last days. He will be missed.
I used to love our date days out peach picking, beer garden hoping, or seeing some sights. You were a wonderful husband to my mom and loving grandfather to my kids. I will forever miss that laugh of yours, that one that shook the whole house! We love you grandpa and thank you for the contributions you have made in our lives. See you in heaven!
Kenny, you have been in our lives since your high school days. A true and loving friend. You leave behind a wife, beautiful families and special friends. You are already missed so very much. There is so much I can say about you but I shall leave that in my heart.
Many fond memories of flying down to Virginia to visit Ken and Marsha. Kenny would go flying with Andy and we would go shopping. Wonderful husband and Dad. He will be remembered fondly and will be in my prayers.
Uncle Kenny was always so loving and supportive of all of us. He will be greatly missed by so many. The best memories were of all of us camping together in Vermont and the best Halloween party I’d ever been to in Granby. Love you Uncle Kenny.
Love,
CJ
It was a pleasure to have spent time with you, Ken, both in RI and more recently in March in VA. I’ll remember you fondly, in particular for your love of family and life.
So many memories, family gatherings at you home in Granny., snowed in in Vermont, canoeing, badminton tournaments, visits in Ri when my mother died. My life has been so much richer with Ken Carpenter in it. God bless your wonderful family and the deepest sympathy to Liz, Josh, Tom and their families.
I have so many memories of “Uncle” Kenny. Camping trips, exploring Vermont and Maine, visiting you and Aunt Marcia in Virginia, time spent at your house in Enfield, and tons of fun with our family, your family, and the Ross’s. You were an integral part of my childhood. I will miss you so very much.
so sorry for your lost
May Father God hold your hand today during your time of lost.
i remember you at Ginter Park School. Liz Ann Smith.
William A. Gray
red gray
billy gray
I worked with Ken for a number of years at VDOT and he was a great friend and mentor to me. When my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 ,Ken was the first person to come see me and provide comfort and support- this meant so much to me – this was the type of person he was. He will be missed . Richard and Linda – Elizabeth and Jessica Holte
Ken was more like a brother to me than a cousin. He was the link that kept the family together. Growing up I have many fond memories of family gatherings at Uncle Homer’s farm.
Such a good and kind husband, father and friend. And what a wonderful gift of gab! We used to say if you asked Ken what time it was he would tell you how to build a clock! He liked that.
Liz, So sorry for your loss. Ken was a great guy. I am so glad you two found each other.
Ken was a dear and cherished friend over many years. I always enjoyed my discussions with him and hearing about his loved family and the trips he took. I will miss him but cherish the memories Thoughts with Liz and family
Loved the Carpenter family. My sons Darren and Kevin Tishler met Tim And Josh at Montessori. I still have the Rhubarb transplanted from your house to mine in Somers!! My husband, Ron, passed away 3 years ago. Please accept deepest Sympathy from our family, Darren , Kevin and Gail Tishler.