Kenneth F. O’Brien

Published by Daily Hampshire Gazette on May 14, 2022.

Hadley, MA — Ken O’Brien, 94, a longtime resident of Hadley, MA, passed away suddenly at home on May 8, 2022. Born in Colrain, MA on September 10, 1927, he was the son of the late Irene Bolduc Moore and Abner “Spec” O’Brien. His stepfather, John Moore, and grandfather, Joseph Bolduc, were both father figures in his early life. He was predeceased by his half brother, Robert Moore, and by the love of his life, Helen, his wife of 71 years.

Ken was very proud of his career spanning decades with Western Mass Electric Company, now Eversource. He was the quintessential self made man, never finishing high school but instead starting as a young lineman in Greenfield long before bucket trucks, climbing utility poles with boot spurs and a leather belt strap to support him. In the sixties, he took his final position with the company as Superintendent of Distribution for the Amherst area and helped greatly in the transition from their old Amherst building to the new facility in Hadley. He loved his job and especially enjoyed mentoring the younger members of his crew in both their lives and their work.

Ken also loved golf. Years ago, he and his early golfing buddy, Fran “Rags” Descavich, were a well known duo on the links as well as at numerous “watering holes” in the area. When Ken moved with his family to Hadley, he started his long playing career at Amherst Golf Course. Those who knew Ken knew it was his second home. Not only did he enjoy playing with his best friend, Dick Simpson, and various other members, but he also had daily visits with course pro Dave Twowig, often over a Guinness on the porch. Ken continued to play up until the day he left us.

Over the years, he won several tournaments including the Division 1 Club Championship, was one of the founding members of the Legends senior golf group, and participated in the Triathlon Tournament named in his honor. The unusual nuances of his golf swing were once compared to the unconventional pitching style of Luis Tiant and truly became legendary when dubbed “The swing that stood the test of time” on an honorary brick at the course.

Ken loved his family. He and his wife, Helen, were blessed with a love affair marriage and he and his daughter, Bonnie Bobetsky, now living in Beaufort, NC with her husband, Ted, shared a special bond which only grew stronger as the years passed. He enjoyed his visits with his beloved grandchildren, Brianna, Kyle and Shauna Seaver, and was very proud of them and their accomplishments. His furry housemate, Cooper the cat, also held a special place in his life.

In addition to his family and golf friends, Ken enjoyed spending time with his Wednesday coffee group and visiting with many of his neighbors. Besides his daughter and grandchildren, Ken also leaves a half brother, Richard Moore, of Jupiter, FL and half sister, Barbara Anderson, of The Villages, FL and several nieces and nephews. Ken was known for his quick wit, strong presence, incredible energy and ageless spirit. He will long be remembered by all whose lives he touched. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday May 20, at 10:00 AM at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Hadley. Burial will be private. Memorial guestbook at www.douglassfuneral.com