LT. Kenneth Winters
NORTH BROOKFIELD- Lieutenant Commander Kenneth “Ken” Gary Winters, a beloved husband, father, Pop pop, and retired Navy Chaplain, passed away on August 8, 2025 in peace at his home, at the age of 74. Born on October 3, 1950, Ken lived a life defined by his charismatic spirit, genuine love for others, and unwavering faith.
Ken met his dear wife and best friend, Connie, while attending Houghton College on Valentine’s Day in 1970, leading to 55 more Valentine’s days together and 53 wonderful years of marriage. She was his rock in every endeavor from that day forth. The joy, trust, and love shared between them was inspirational and their “ice cube wars” were second to none, regularly filling their home with laughter.
Before his distinguished career in the Navy, Ken and Connie moved to North Brookfield, MA where Ken served as a youth pastor and they welcomed two daughters into the world. After twenty years of dedicated service as a Navy Chaplain, he retired and returned to North Brookfield, a place he held dear to his heart.
During his venerable career in the U.S. Navy, Ken’s compassion and dedication shone through to all that had the pleasure of knowing him. His innate ability to help and lift others up, whether it was by providing empathetic, judgement free guidance, connecting and inspiring through music, or a multitude of selfless acts too numerous to list, brightened the lives of those who served with him. Ken was stationed all over the world during his military career and the hearts he touched through his life of service are scattered just as far.
Ken’s life was rich with passions. He found joy in kayaking, biking, playing guitar, singing, hiking, baseball, and gardening. Above all, he cherished spending time with his friends and family. His grandson, Bernie, often remarked, “Do you know everybody, Pop pop?” because Ken had a remarkable way of connecting with people, listening to their stories with genuine interest, and providing unconditional support to anyone who needed it. He was like his father, James A. Winters, in his gregarious and talkative nature. Ken was also deeply inspired by his wife, Connie, the love of his life. He believed and spoke often of how he wouldn’t have been the father, pastor, or Navy Chaplain he was without her support, encouragement, and love.
Ken is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Connie Winters; his daughters, Laura Salvaggio and Emily Winters; his sons-in-law, Bernie Salvaggio III and Matthew Gibeault; and his cherished grandson and best bud, Bernie Salvaggio IV. He was preceded by his parents James and Emma Winters and his brother Jimmy Winters.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate Ken’s life at 3pm on Saturday, August 16 in the East Brookfield Baptist Church Main St East Brookfield. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall. The reception will have live music provided by those who love him and want to share a song. There will be some planned, but also time for “open mic” music contributions with a drum set, bass, keyboard and guitar available for general use. (Or feel free to bring your own if you have that preference.) A graveside service with military honors will be held Wednesday, August 20 at 11am in Walnut Grove Cemetery in North Brookfield.In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of the following non-profit organizations:East Brookfield Baptist Church: https://sites.google.com/view/east-brookfield-baptist-church/homeKidney Cancer Association: www.kidneycancer.org. Arrangements are under the care of Pillsbury Funeral Home 44 Gilbert St North Brookfield.