Kenneth E. Strong

Kenneth Ernest Strong, of Franconia NH, died unexpectedly at home on February 18, 2025, just shy of his 85th birthday. Born on March 7, 1940, he was always referred to as “Kenny” by his family but was generally known as Ken by friends and neighbors.

Ken was born and raised in Hartland, VT, the 10th of 13 children of Ernest and Vina (Darling) Strong. He graduated from Woodstock High School in 1959. His proudest moment from high school was being a member of the 1958-1959 state champion football team, which went undefeated that year as well. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force (1959-1963). Ken later joined the Vermont State Police following the footsteps of two of his older brothers. After 12 years, a serious back injury sidelined his career in law enforcement. Ken held various jobs throughout his life and was loved for his sarcasm and sense of humor.

Ken enjoyed cooking, gardening, landscaping, sports, and motorcycles. His children recall spending much of their childhood shopping for his “next” motorcycle. Ken spent numerous hours tossing a softball or throwing a football in the backyard with his family in Johnson, VT. His greatest accomplishment and joy was his family, moving from his home state of VT to Franconia, NH to be nearer to his grandchildren in 2008.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 59 years, Susan (Leach) Strong of Franconia, NH and three children: Robin Strong Lubguban and her partner Dan Lavoie of Bethlehem, NH; Tina (Strong) Weed and her husband David Weed of Henniker, NH and Michael Strong and his wife Jessica Bowser Strong of Morrisville, VT. He was the grandfather of Emily, Elizabeth and Aaron Weed and Silvia Lubguban all formally of Franconia and the great grandfather of four beautiful children. He is survived by two brothers, Bernard and Steve Strong and a sister Sylvia Doten.

Ken’s family extend loving gratitude to the nurses, patients, and volunteers at Frescenius Kidney Care in St. Johnsbury, VT and Lancaster, NH. Having dialysis three days a week for over 5 years the centers were Ken’s “home away from home” and the relationships and friendships meant so much to him and our family.

A memorial service honoring Ken Strong’s life will be hosted by members of the Franconia Community Church of Christ at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 29,2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wednesday Supper Program at the Franconia Community Church of Christ, PO Box 237, 44 Church Street, Franconia, NH 03580.