Byron Pierce Kinnie, Jr.

September 29, 1925 - January 26, 2010

Byron Pierce Kinnie Jr., 84, lifelong resident of Griswold, passed into the loving hands of his Creator on January 26, 2010. He was born on September 29, 1925 to the late Byron and Mabel Kanahan Kinnie, their only child. He was united in marriage to Pauline Claire Bessette on December 11, 1954. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years. In addition, he is survived by his daughter, April Kinnie Hansen, and her husband, Harry Hansen; his son, Courtland Kinnie, and his wife Bridget; eight grandchildren: Judy Hansen McRae and husband, Jonathon McRae, Emily Hansen, Erich Hansen, Maegan Hansen, Brandon Kinnie, Brianna Kinnie, Makayla Kinnie, and Benjamin Kinnie; and great grandson, Connor McRae. He was predeceased by his son, Sterry Kinnie.
Byron learned many responsibilities of a family farm very early in life while his mother spent eleven years in a TB sanitarium. As generations of Kinnie’s before him, Byron had a keen knowledge and love of farming. Because of this, the US Army determined he was more valuable as a farmer than he would be serving in World War II. This did not deter him from enlisting during the Korean Conflict. He served with the 45th Infantry Division and the Army Reserve until his honorable discharge in 1957. He spent three years as a first class welder at Electric Boat. For the remainder of his life, Byron was a heavy equipment operator, installing septic systems, excavating foundations, and working the family farm.
No matter how busy or tired he was, Byron always had space on his lap and time for his children and grandchildren. He loved to go to dance recitals and school music concerts. Music was always a part of his life. In his youth, he learned to play the saxophone, still being played by his grandson. He spent many years in a marching band and even played in a polka band. Byron was blessed by the friendships of so many wonderful people and his life was richer for this.
Byron had a strong conviction of doing his part in civic duties. He was an active member in many groups that were dear to his heart. During his time as Commander of the Jewett City VFW Post #10004 in 1971-1972, he was proud to have helped make it possible for all submarine servicemen to be recognized members of the VFW. Byron was an active member of the Pachaug Grange, past president of the NL Country Farm Bureau, past president of the Pachaug Fair, co-chair of the Voluntown Festival, past chairman of the Griswold Planning and Zoning Commission, former chairman of Griswold School Building Committee in the 1970’s, a member of the American Legion, and a member of the CT Society of Mayflower descendants. Byron was a lifelong member of the Masons (over 63 years), as well as, a life member of both the Voluntown Fire Company and the VFW. He played an active role in the restoration of the Thomas Kinne Cemetery in Griswold and the Old Kinne Cemetery in Voluntown. In recent years, Byron became a member of the Voluntown Baptist Church.
Byron was a proud member of the Thursday Crew at the Camp Wightman Baptist Camp. He enjoyed the camaraderie of other retirees who devoted their time and expertise to make the camp a better place for all. He especially enjoyed making a flower garden outside the dining hall.

He will be missed by all.

Facts

Born: September 29, 1925
Death: January 26, 2010
Occupation: Farmer
Organizations: VFW, Masons, Voluntown Fire Company

Guestbook

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Memorial Donations

Memorial donations may be made to:
Camp Wightman, 207 Coal Pit Hill Rd., Griswold , CT. 06351

Services

Memorial Service

Sunday January 31, 2010, 2:00 - pm at Voluntown Baptist Church
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