Kenneth R. Steinke

Kenneth R. Steinke CLAREMONT — Kenneth Roy Steinke, 85, passed away on Sept. 8, 2021, at Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community in Windsor, Vermont. He was born to Ellen and Norman Steinke in Dayton, Ohio, on Oct. 8, 1935. He was a talented musician, having played alto horn, trumpet and drums. In 1960, he met and married his wife, Muriel, in California, where they had a daughter, Pamela Jean. They eventually made their way back east and came to Claremont, where they lived happily for 32 years, until Muriel’s passing. They belonged to the First Baptist Church in Claremont, where they both played in the handbell choir and sang in the choir. Kenneth worked for ITT Continental Baking Co., was the Hostess Cake supervisor in Claremont and later worked for the U.S. Postal Service. He also served in the United States Army. After losing his beloved Muriel in 2006, he bought a home in Englewood, Florida. He spent winters there and summers on Lake Mascoma with his companion, Beth Griffiths. Kenneth spent the last three years of his life at Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community in Windsor, Vermont, where the kind, compassionate staff made sure he was comfortable and content in his daily life. For that, his daughter, Pam, will be forever grateful, especially since there were many months when her daily visits were no longer possible. Kenneth was predeceased by his brother, Norman Steinke; his parents, Norman and Ellen (Strong) Steinke; and his wife, Muriel. He was a wonderful son, husband, and according to his daughter, Pam, the best dad in the world. Arrangements are with Stringer Funeral Home and Crematorium, 146 Broad St., Claremont, NH 03743. To view an online memorial or send a private message of condolence, visit www.stringerfh.com