Kenneth Flinkstrom

Kenneth Lee Flinkstrom, affectionately known as Ken, Kenny, and Flinky, passed away on December 27, 2024, at the age of 70.

Son of the late Norman and Lillian (Aho) Flinkstrom of Ashby, MA.  Ken was born on October 2, 1954, in Fitchburg, MA and grew up in Ashby, MA; however, he resided with his wife Denise in Templeton, MA for the last 23 years.  Ken was a graduate of North Middlesex High School in 1972 and attended Quinsigamond Community College.

Ken was a devoted husband to and caretaker of Denise (Banville) Flinkstrom, with whom he shared 17 joyful years of marriage along with their sweet and loving dog Cocoa. He cherished his family above all, including his beloved daughters, Kendra (Flinkstrom) Bryce and her husband Corey Bryce and Keri-Anne Flinkstrom-Piekarz, as well as his stepchildren, Joshua Plant, his spouse Christopher Landry and Sarah (Plant) Aldrich, her spouse Jared Aldrich.

Ken took immense pride in his relationship with his family and his close-knit relationship with his siblings; Charles and his wife Nancy (Crocker), Sally and her husband Ernest Jeffrey, Carl and his wife Nancy (Holmes), Joan and her husband Oliver Kujala, Nancy and her husband Theodore Martin; his grandchildren, Emma Salafia, Jacob Salafia, Tyler Salafia, Alaina Salafia, and Benjamin Bryce; and great-grandchildren, Lucian Lowell, Desmond Lowell, and Raven Rahim. As well as his step-grandchildren, Danika Roberts, Nora Aldrich and Sophia Aldrich, along with his brother-in-law Steven Banville.

Kenneth is survived by his loving wife, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cherished siblings, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In his professional career, Ken began as a laborer in construction, eventually rising to become a project manager and designer for pharmaceutical packaging line integrations. He was particularly proud of building and securing a home in rural Massachusetts in 2001, a testament to his hard work and determination.  

Ken was a multifaceted individual with hobbies that reflected his vibrant spirit. He was passionate about gardening, ensuring his lawn was picture-perfect. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, camping, and singing. A true muscle car enthusiast, his pride and joy was his 2020 Challenger RT1320 Dragpack.

His love for adventure was evident as he conquered some of New England's highest mountains during his teens and twenties with family, including Mt. Washington, Mt. Mansfield, and Katahdin.

Known for his strength and gentleness, Ken was the type of person who could give the best bear hugs and was unbeatable in arm wrestling. His life motto, “Sisu,” reflected his resilience and unyielding spirit. He will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and the indelible mark he left on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date and time at Williams Restaurant – 184 Pearson Blvd, Gardner, MA  01440.  Would you kindly share your e-mail address for a forthcoming electronic invitation. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, American Stroke Association, or Make-A-Wish Foundation in Kenneth’s name.