Kenneth W. Erikson

On Saturday, October 15, 2022, Kenneth W. Erikson passed away at the age of 73.  He was born to Adolf and Aide Erikson in Boston, MA on June 2, 1949. Ken attended Norwood High School where he graduated in 1967.  He went on to obtain his college education at Purdue University and the University of Massachusetts where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering.  He took additional graduate level classes at Babson University.

Ken started his professional career at Itek Corporation where he was honored for his work and contributions on the Hubble Telescope. He ultimately left Itek to start his own company, KERK Motion Products, with his twin brother Keith.  From humble beginnings at a mill building on Lake Street in Nashua, NH, Ken and Keith were able to grow the business into a very successful company.  They eventually moved their core operations to Hollis, NH with additional facilities in Milford, NH.  Ken and Keith had multiple patents on their inventions/products at KERK that were used in a wide array of consumer goods, hospital machines, copiers and more.

One of Ken's passions was golf.  He spent every opportunity he could on the course and enjoyed playing competitively.  Whether it was playing a casual round,  club tournaments or a scramble, Ken loved every aspect of the game. His fondest memories came with the time he spent on the course with his good friends and family. Playing with his Amherst golf buddies, his sons and grandkids was time he always treasured.

Ken's friends were such an important part of his life and he was incredibly fortunate to have such wonderful, caring people around him.  Some of his most revered time was traveling, vacationing, golfing and relaxing alongside his friends.  He cherished those friendships deeply and the memories that were shared.  

Ken never took himself too seriously and always seemed to bring out the best in people.  His endearing nature and positive attitude always rubbed off on those around him.  If you were ever fortunate enough to spend time with him, you always walked away with a smile (and maybe an inappropriate joke or two).

Ken leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Carolyn, whom he married in 1973.  Ken and Carolyn spent a large portion of their life in Amherst, NH before settling in their current home in Cape Neddick, ME. Ken had two sons, Chris and Cory.  Ken was incredibly proud of his children and enjoyed coaching both sons in the Amherst Soccer Club program and watching them play competitive tennis.  Ken spent many weekends traveling around New England and beyond bringing his sons to various tennis tournaments which brought him great joy.

Ken will be missed dearly by the remainder of his family.  His grandkids, Calvin, Grant, Zachary and Reed all loved him very much.  He leaves behind his brother Keith Erikson with wife Debbie Erikson of Tequesta, Florida and sister Diane Zaia with husband John Zaia of Acworth, Georgia and their respective families.  He was predeceased by his parents Adolf and Aide Erikson and his brother David Erikson.  Ken's memory will live on through his family and all of the wonderful friends, colleagues and acquaintances he knew along the way.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to:
The Plus Company
19 Chestnut Street
Nashua, NH 03060

A celebration of life is being held Thursday, November 3rd from 2-5PM at the Cliff House Grand Ballroom located at 591 Shore Road Cape Neddick, ME.

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