Published December 21, 2018
MELROSE — Kenneth W. Kirwin, Jr., 68, of Melrose, died at his home on Dec. 13, 2018.
Ken was born on August 4, 1950 in Lowell to Kenneth and Mary (Ginivan) Kirwin. He and his sister Maureen were twins. Ken graduated from Keith Academy in 1968 and from Lowell Technological Institute (now UMass Lowell) in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. He later attended Northeastern University for post graduate studies in Civil Engineering.
Ken began a more than 40-year professional career; starting with the Massachusetts Department of Public Works in 1973. In 1976 he moved on to work for the M.D.C. (Metropolitan District Commission) now known as the D.C.R. (Department of Conservation and Recreation) He retired in January of 2016.
While working at the MDC he met the love of his life, Dorothy Vining. They married in 1979. Together they would have three children: Lisa, Kevin and Twilah. In 1988 Ken and Dottie bought their first house in Melrose. Their children attended and graduated from local schools. The Kirwin family enjoyed all sorts of activities together including camping trips to various places in New England and regular stays in Conway, N.H.
In his younger years Ken enjoyed bowling and skiing. He liked to fish and also attended local greyhound and horse racing with a long-time neighbor. Most of all Ken was an avid fan of all the Boston/New England professional sports teams. He attended games on occasion but was just as happy to watch the Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics at home with family and friends.
One of the saddest events in Ken’s life occurred in 2014 when his beloved wife of 35 years suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. Ken however would have great support from his children in the years following. And soon would become a devoted grandfather to a new edition in the family, James the son of Twilah and Gary. Ken cherished his grandson and delighted in spending as much time as possible with him. Grampa and James loved going to the park, walks to watch the trains and visiting the zoo and the aquarium. In retirement, Ken also took pride in having the time to do yardwork and hosting BBQ and pool parties during the summer months.
In September of 2018 Ken was hospitalized and diagnosed with a glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer. He endured an aggressive treatment regimen but what he wanted most of all was to go home. Ken was happy to be able to spend time and be surrounded by love ones for his remaining time.
Ken was the beloved husband of the late Dorothy (Vining) Kirwin. Loving father of Lisa Kirwin of Melrose, Kevin Kirwin and his fiancé Meghan of East Boston and Twilah Davidson and her husband Gary of Malden. Cherished grandfather of James. Caring brother of Maureen Dewey and her husband Dave of R.I., Daniel Kirwin of N.H., Eileen Kirwin of Milford, Thomas Kirwin and his wife Heather and Joseph Kirwin, all of Lowell. Also survived by nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Thursday, Dec. 20 from 4-7 p.m. Procession from the Gately Funeral Home on Friday, Dec. 21 at 8:45 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary’s Church, 9 Herbert St., Melrose at 10 a.m. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. For directions and to sign online condolence visit www.gatelyfh.com.
