Kenneth A. "Ken" Kartes
August 11, 1961 — April 24, 2020
Kenneth A. "Ken" Kartes
Ken was born in Woburn on August 11, 1961, one of two children of the late Elaine (McGunnigle) McGoldrick, and late Patrick Kartes.He grew up in the Stoneham area, and graduated from Stoneham High School in 1979. As a child, he particularly loved spending time on a CB radio with his brother Chris. The two would goof around, making new friends with other CB users, and listening to their stories.
After high school, he attended Bunker Hill College where his mother was also a student.He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1983 and served as an MP for six years at Pease Air Force Base.He made many dear lifelong friends while he was in the service.
An inquisitive child who loved taking things apart, and sometimes putting them back together, it seemed fitting that he embarked on a career in appliance repair. No task was too big for Ken. He worked at Nard's Appliance in Somersworth, New Hampshire for 19 years, a small business built on community relationships, where he flourished, became a friend to all, and was a beloved member of the community.Even while the family was on vacation, sometimes in other parts of the country, he came across people who knew him. Eventually Ken struck out on his own, starting the repair business Ken's Appliance and began his transition into the art of photography.
Ken did not always know he had a creative eye with the camera. He received his first at a young age and used it to photograph family events. With the transition into self-employment, he had more time to explore and develop this passion in life. A self-taught photographer, Ken especially loved capturing nature, scenes of people, and anything else that tickled his fancy.He taught his wife and family so much about nature through the lens of a camera.
While Ken loved his work, and its ability to allow him get to know members of the community, his true passion was his family.He truly loved his dear Joan, and was exceptionally active in his children's, and grandchildren's lives. He was their biggest fan; proud of all their accomplishments.
Ken loved to travel with his family, and never had a problem making new friends wherever he was. He found great love in exploring family history during his travels, visiting Ireland twice in a single year and exploring North Dakota to see the farm his father grew up on.
Ken adored time spent outdoors.New Hampshire may not have been where he was born, but in his heart, it was where he was from.Dover was his home, and the state was his playground.He enjoyed trips to the White Mountains, Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge, the seacoast, and so many other places, far-and-near. Ken felt many lessons could be learned in nature if one only took the time to watch and learn.
Ken had love for his family, friends, and for life, even in the depths of illness and pain. His broad shoulders, that he gracefully offered for others to cry upon, will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He will serve as an inspiration, and we will remember the gentleman that was Ken.
Ken was preceded in death by his mother Elaine (McGunnigle) McGoldrick, father Patrick Kartes, and step-father George McGoldrick.Beloved husband of Joan M. (Sutton) Kartes. Devoted father of Jonathan Kartes and his significant other Joanna Walsh, of Penacook, NH, Crystal Bairos of Leominster, Tammy Frankie of Milton, NH, Lauren Kershaw of Melrose, and Brian Kershaw of Melrose, and Tony Bairos of Berlin. Loving brother to Chris Kartes and his long-time significant other Terry Goclon of Tega Cay, SC. Goofy nephew of Bill McGunnigle and Paula Messano. Cousin to Billy McGunnigle. Blended family of Michael, George and David McGoldrick and their spouses, and Mary McGoldrick. Cherished grandfather of Acacia and Anthony Bairos. Also survived by his former wife, and mother of his son Cathy Speidel of Milton, NH.
Due to the ongoing public health crisis in the world and with genuine concern for the people in the community, Services for Ken will be private and reserved for immediate family and friends. A celebration of life will be announced at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, in memory of Ken Kartes, to support cancer research and patient care at:Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA. 02284 or via http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/KenKartes
For now, please offer your words of love and support online at RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
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