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Kenneth Bird Obituary
He was born in Norwich, on April 25, 1959, the son of Nancy (Turello) Bird and the late Edwin Guy Bird. He was the husband of Susan Kelly-Bird.
Mr. Bird was a 1977 graduate of Waterford High School. Ken along with his dear friend, Dave Smith, started Dependable Contracting Services in 2004, and have become very well respected contractors and builders throughout Eastern Connecticut.
Ken was a friend of Bill W's for 30 years and was the first person to reach out and volunteer to help.
Ken was an avid dirt bike enthusiast who enjoyed his weekend runs with his son, Jason and his partner, Dave. He additionally enjoyed golfing with his wife, racing at the Waterford Speedbowl, traveling, and helping his friends in need.
Ken had an innate ability to make a room laugh with his amazing sense of humor.
In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by a son, Jason Kenneth Bird and daughter-in-law, Katie LaChappelle of Oakdale; a brother, Ed Bird of Waterford; aunts, Jane Turner of Waterford, Josephine Weinberg of New London, Alice Trakas of Niantic; a niece, Elise Frechette; and a stepson, Zachary Lusk of Westerly. He is also survived by his mother and father-in-law, Dottie and Jim Kelly; sister-in-law, Karen Kelly; brother-in-law, James Kelly; and his beloved dogs, Peanut, Louis, and Jet.
Calling hours are Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Ave., New London. A funeral service will be conducted on Saturday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Ken's family would like to suggest casual attire.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Friends of Bill W, Connecticut Humane Society, Wounded Warriors Project, or a charity of your choice.
Condolence messages may be left on Ken's memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Bird
Sponsored by with love from Matt & Debbie.
mike McGuire
March 20, 2015
Ken was a great guy I'm glad I had a chance to know him
Tina Cabigting
August 16, 2013
God Bless
Rachel Hyde-McGuinness
August 15, 2013
Sue,Ed and all Ken's family--I'm sorry for your loss, I knew Ken from way back in the program, 1983, and remember him as someone who was excited about life ~ who lived his dreams..who knew what he wanted to do and did it...so glad he had a good life..my thoughts have definitely been with you since I heard about his passing...definitely in my prayers too. Although many years have passed, its hard to think about a world without him in it.
Grace Schmidt
August 11, 2013
Dear Sue,
I am so very sorry to hear about Ken's accident and you and the family's loss of him.
You and Ken have held a very special and loving place in my heart for such a long time.
I am sending prayers your way and wish angels to surround you with peace for your heart. Knowing you dear lady and who you are, I am certain you are surrounded by love.
I have an endless amount of appreciation for all the kindness and love you and Ken have shown me and know so many others are blessed by crossing paths with you both.
"Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for a while, leave footprints on our hearts and we are never, ever the same." Thank you Sue for the footprints left on my heart. May you rest in God's arms as he carry's you through this time.
Love your way dear friend,
Grace (Suarez) Schmidt
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Will Slivinski
August 10, 2013
My sincerest sympathy to Susan and so many people he reached out and gave so much of himself to help never asking for anything in return.
Leese Connery
July 29, 2013
Very sorry for your loss. Praying for Ken and his family. Leese Connery
Friend of Bill W's
Dave & Lynne Lersch
July 28, 2013
As Kenny's neighbor, I enjoyed meeting up with him somewhere during his evening walks with the pups....we'd talk politics, construction, mechanical projects, motorcycles, and of course, any topic of local interest. Ken was a true gentleman and always there to lend a helping hand and cheerful smile...Sue too. God blessed me with the opportunity to get to know Ken; to share his concerns for the betterment of society; and to be the giving hand when help was needed. We are in a much better world because of the inspiration and good nature he brought to others. Lynne and I will think of him often....be at peace my friend, knowing you served God and your fellow man well!
Hal and Betty Bonner Pompano Beach, Florida
July 27, 2013
Sue , Jason, Ed and family
We lived across the street and watched Ken grow from a youth to a mature young man who contributed much to society by the way he led his life and influenced others~~~ONE DAY AT A TIME
may he rest in peace. Our prayers are with you
Pauline ODonnell
July 27, 2013
Susan and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Fred Jefferson
July 27, 2013
Sue,
I am so sorry to hear about Ken. Know that I am praying for you and I believe God will strengthen you and help you through this very painful and difficult time in your life. God bless you.
Dave Willis
July 27, 2013
Ken has given so much to so many. He will be deeply missed by many. His family is in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. He has left some big shoes to fill.
Wendy Poplett
July 26, 2013
Susan,
So sorry for your loss. Racers & Hugs to All.
Wendy & Lee P.
Deborah Burt Wilton
July 26, 2013
As a fellow friend of Bill W., Ken taught me about the importance of service work and being there to help others. My very deepest sympathy to Sue, Ken's son and all of his family and friends. Blessings and Peace to you
Ron Pinsoneault
July 26, 2013
Ken was a absolutely wonderful person who always had a kind word.He will be greatly missed
Robert Walter
July 26, 2013
Dear Ed and Family, Being a former Waterford Villager and going to school with both Ed and Ken this comes as a shock. My condolences to Ed, both Mrs. Bird's and the family.
Bob Walter
Jonathan Gibson
July 26, 2013
Susan,
Ken was truly an inspiration to all that knew him. I am honored to have known Ken. A great and selfless man has been taken from his loved ones far too early. I pray that you find comfort knowing that the Grace of God flowed in and through Ken onto countless others saving and enhancing lives, helping them to go on one day at a time. All my condolences and God's blessings on you and your family.
Michele and Bill VanMameren
July 26, 2013
We had worked with Kenny at Electric Boat. He worked in my office. He was always very kind and always in a good mood. We are sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
July 26, 2013
I always remember Ken as cheery and upbeat, its no surprised that he passed doing something he loved and enjoyed.
July 26, 2013
Thanks for being the example we should all strive for. Thinking of others first, reaching out & serving one another in love & compassion. I will miss you. Debbie
belinda (hewett) jurzyk
July 26, 2013
sorry for you loss you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Missy Traficonda-Burdick
July 26, 2013
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of Kenny. He was good friends with my brother, Phil and inturn I became friends with him. He was such a nice guy. I would sit and talk to him for hours at the speedbowl. I am truely sorry for your loss.
July 26, 2013
I had the opportunity to work with Kenny at Bradford in the 90's. Ken was always the professional...with a sense of humor...a quality not always appreciated at Bradford.
Ken will be missed and those of us who knew him are better for knowing him.
Denny Kent
Dayton, Ohio
tony Buonfiglio
July 26, 2013
he was one of the good ones ! it's a great loss ! my prayers go out to you Sue and the entire family !
Tony Buonfiglio
July 26, 2013
I had the opportunity to work with Kenny at Bradford in the 90's. He was always the professional ...with a sense of humor!
Kenny has left us all too soon and we are better for having knowing him.
Denny Kent,
Dayton, Ohio
Sharon Fleming
July 26, 2013
Dear Susan and family,
I am very saddened for your loss. Ken was a gracious, patient contractor to do business with and he had a way with his customers to be sure they were comfortable with their decisions. He will be missed by all the folks at F.W. Webb - you are in my prayers. Sincerely, Sharon
July 26, 2013
Prayers, Love and Healing energy....Joe & Joann
DAWNIA LUMADUE-PARISEK
July 26, 2013
Dear Ed and the rest of Ken's family, I have known Kenny since 7th grade and we were friends all though high school. We hung out in a big group of kids in junior high going to the movies and just doing the crazy things kids that age could do. I will always remember him for the funny man he grew up to become.Losing a classmate is hard, however losing a husband, dad and brother and son is even harder,I know some of this first hand. I am sending my thoughts and prayers to the whole family. And Linda I am not forgetting you, Love to you all. God Bless you all and may Kenny rest in peace
Dawnia
Peggy
July 26, 2013
My condolences to Susan and Ken's whole family on the loss of this wonderful man from their lives. Your loss is shared in small measure by all of us who were touched by his great love for life. We honor his memory by passing it on.
Ruthie F.
July 26, 2013
I'm so sorry , Sue.
Be Strong...will pray for you.
Tony Leckey
July 26, 2013
Deeply saddened to learn of Ken's passing. I had the pleasure to deal with Ken at the Speedbowl and he was a gentleman and a delight to be around. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
Francine Casanova
July 26, 2013
You are one of the reasons why I am alive today. I will always remember you as the smiley smart soft spoken guy. Susan and family I am so sorry for your loss.Prayers always. <3
Tim Poole
July 25, 2013
My heart goes out to you Susan, may you find peace and comfort in knowing Kenny will always be with you in spirit.. He will be missed by many. RIP Ken
Scott Cook
July 25, 2013
Thoughts & prayers to Kens family. Raced with Ken at the "Bowl" and had fun doing so. Very professional business person to talk to & refer
business to. RIP
#10 Scott S. Cook - owner Erasable Images Power Washing Servuces
Images Power Washing Services
July 25, 2013
To all ken's relations love and prayers! there are no words ,only Time,the time we had ,the time we will miss, the time it will take to understand Much love the sanborns
July 25, 2013
Ken, so integral in the lives of so many, always making a difference, always speaking his truth. You will live on in the lives you touched and saved. May God hold you in the Palm of His Hand. With my deepest respect, Dorrie
Sonny, Brenda, and Robert Hendel
July 25, 2013
Dear Susan and Family, We want to extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family on Ken's passing. He always had a smile on his face or laughter in his voice. He was a nice person to do business with.
Linda Dulin
July 25, 2013
ken remembering all the good old times we had back in the day, sure had some good times. Has me thinking about your Dad and Keen always opening the door on all of us when we were just hanging in Eds old room. Bringing back a lot of good memories. I will be watching over our son and his beautiful wife Katie and stepson Collin from down here and I will count on you to do so from uo there. RIP Much Love Linda
Sandy Salvato
July 25, 2013
As everyone has already said Ken will be missed greatly. Not only was he there for the Friend's of Bill he was also there all the time for the Friend's of Lois. We have lost a great man.
John Beaver
July 25, 2013
May God Bless Ken and his family
Charlie Fitzsimmons
July 25, 2013
A big man leaves a big hole in our hearts and community. Thoughts and prayers are with his family.
July 25, 2013
Susan,We are so sorry to hear about Ken.Our prayers and thoughts are with you.We pray that the love and memories you shared will help you find peace and comfort. Josephine, Kleo, Margie
Jeff and Nicole Hedden
July 25, 2013
A servant's heart: Giving freely of your time, talents and resources for the betterment of others while expecting nothing in return. This is what Kenny showed to so many of us throughout his life. His attitude, humor, smile and generosity were infectious. He seemed to be unable to rest if he knew there was someone who could use his help. He truly made a difference in so many lives that there is no doubt is in Heaven's gates.
Someone mentioned his humor in another message. Ken had that type of humor that even if you were having the worst day ever, he could make you laugh within minutes... and not just giggling laughter... the type that made your stomach hurt from laughing so hard.
Sue, your marriage with Ken was not just of one between a man and woman or husband and wife, but one between two very best friends. You two are inspirational. We love you both dearly and are deeply saddened by Ken's leaving this world.
Jim O'Shea
July 25, 2013
Words can not begin to express the sadness I feel. Ken was one of the most sincere and genuine people I have ever met. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Brian McGuire
July 25, 2013
To Ken's family, my deepest sympathy. I remember Ken fondly from many years ago when I lived in CT. He was a good man. There are lots of mutual Friends of Bill W who were helped by him and carry his legacy. God bless.
Brian Cooper
July 25, 2013
Jay,
My most heartfelt condolences to yourself and all of Kens family, friends and loved ones on the loss of a great Man. He will be missed!
July 25, 2013
I was deeply saddened when I heard the news. Ken will be deeply misses by so many, myself included. Sue you are in my heart and prayers.
Love, Pat P.
Love, Pat P.
Renee Marquand
July 25, 2013
Sue
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please let me know if there is anything you need. My prayers are sent up for you.
Renee
July 25, 2013
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Susan Poole-Northcutt
July 25, 2013
My heart was broken when I heard about Kenny he was dear friend. He saved my life gave me a foundation and the strength no one else could. The world was a better place because of him. My sympathy goes out to his family. I know God will put his arms around you through this difficult time. Just remember he will always be looking over you and be in your heart always. See you on the other side my dear friend.
Martha Dumas
July 25, 2013
So sorry to hear of Ken's passing. His devotion to his fellow friends of Bill will be deeply missed.
David Deckler
July 25, 2013
Sue & Your entire Family,Just want you to know how sadden Iam to hear about kens Passing!You & Ken have been a GREAT INSPERATION IN MY LIFE!He was a good guy I will miss he dearly!Take IT 1 Day @ A Time!Or 1 Minute @ A Time!
July 25, 2013
So very sorry for your loss..I remember great times with Kenny. I was so happy when I found that he had gotten involved in AA and became such an inspiration to so many people. He has left an amazing legacy. God Bless you Ed and family.
Sean Clark
July 25, 2013
I feel grateful to have met Ken six weeks ago. I reached out to him for help, and he reached back. In the short time I knew him, I've heard many wonderful, positive things about him from so many people. My prayers and thoughts go out to his wife, children, extended family, and anyone who was lucky enough to have met Ken.
Bert Mercado
July 25, 2013
"If you can stop and look deeply, you will be able to recognize your beloved one manifesting again and again in different forms. You will again embrace the joy of life." - Thich Nhat Hanh. Ken will live in our hearts and minds always through the good work he has done and , therefore, he will never really leave us.
Tony Ferrucci
July 25, 2013
Sue
I am so sorry for your loss. Ken was a great guy. I will keep you and his family in my prayers. This is a tremendous loss for everybody.
Shelley & Matt Halligan
July 25, 2013
Love and service; very grateful that Kenny lead the way. We love you Jay & Susie.
July 25, 2013
July 25, 2013
July 25, 2013
July 25, 2013
Bob Navin
July 25, 2013
A life well lived. A life lived One Day at a Time. May your memories bring you comfort...
Jason Bird
July 25, 2013
Dad, there are no words. The world has lost an incredible man. I love you and rest easy.
Dick Fallon
July 25, 2013
Ken, you may have gone on to the ultimate journey and this saddens all of us, but the memory of who and what you were will not be forgotten. May God Bless, Rest In Peace.
July 25, 2013
Jay we are so saddened for you for the loss of your dad. You are in our prayers at this very hard time. We love you Grandma and Grandfather
June & Roger LeClair
July 25, 2013
Jason,
Our sincere sympathy on the loss of your Dad. We remember Ken well from his visits to the campground, and we will keep him, you, and your family in our prayers.
God Bless,
June & Roger
Pamela Perry
July 25, 2013
Ed, my heart aches for you at this sad time. Peace to you and your loved ones. Rest in Peace Kenny.
xo Pam
Bill Woznicki
July 25, 2013
Ken was a inspiration to me and many others. He will be greatly missed. The love of my family goes out to Sue and her extended family. God Bless
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Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home - New London12 Ocean Avenue, New London, CT 06320
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