Kenneth J. Schmidt

Kenneth J Schmidt a long-time resident of Hamden passed away suddenly in the early hours of February 10th 2026 at his Stratford residence. Kenny was born on December 18th, 1950, to the late Russell and Bernice Schmidt of Hamden Ct. Kenny leaves behind his loving wife, Lynn (Macaboy) Schmidt, his beloved daughter Kendra Blake and her husband Chris. He also leaves behind sisters Nanci Dower (Bobby), Gail Schmidt, Barbara Thomas (Joseph), Joannie Woods (Robert), Carol Hultgren (Glenn), he is predeceased by his two brothers William Schmidt (Joanne), Thomas Schmidt (Tricia). Kenny leaves behind many nieces and nephews, including his God-daughter Kimberly Dower.

Kenny was a proud graduate of Cheshire Academy who went on to voluntarily enlist in the United States Army, serving honorably and in country during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he joined the family business, Formatron, before eventually branching out to create his own custom cabinetry company, KCI. His love for woodworking-custom cabinetry, fine furniture, and kitchen remodeling-became the foundation of his professional life, and his skill in the craft was truly exceptional.

From an early age, Kenny was a natural athlete, competing in multiple sports, but it was boxing that became his defining passion. As a professional heavyweight, he earned the nickname "The Hamden Hammer," a name recognized across Connecticut. When his boxing career came to a close, he transitioned into sports journalism, becoming a respected reporter for the New Haven Register and covering professional title fights across the nation.

During this same period, Kenny co founded Ring One Boxing in New Haven, a nonprofit dedicated to mentoring and providing disciplined boxing training to disadvantaged youth. Ring One became one of his proudest accomplishments- a place where he poured his heart into giving young people structure, confidence, and opportunity. He also played a role in the family's restaurant business, the Pumpernickel Pub, adding yet another chapter to a life rooted in community and connection.

The family especially wants to honor Kenny's drive to make people laugh, smile, and feel loved. His generosity was unmatched, as was his joy in sharing-stories, meals, adventures, and time. He was known across the state by many names: Hamden Hammer, Kenneth, the Odd Boy, and a few others best left off the page. Whatever you called him, you knew the spirit behind it.

Many of us listened to his stories, kissed the boo boo, danced and sang with him, cried and laughed with him, yelled and forgave, loved and enjoyed life alongside him. Kenny had a passion for traveling, for discovering new restaurants, and for spending time with family, friends, and loved ones. He worked hard, and he played hard, and he lived with a fullness that touched everyone around him.

For all of this-and for all he gave-we are forever grateful.

Calling hours for Ken will be Sunday March 1, 2026 from 1 - 4 p.m. in Sisk Brothers Funeral Home 3105 Whitney Ave. Hamden. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations are made to St Jude's (stjude.org) or Tunnel 2 Towers Foundation (t2t.org) in honor of Kenny Schmidt. To leave an online condolence please visit www.siskbrothers.com