Kenneth E Fears

Kenneth (Kenn) Eugene Fears passed away peacefully on April 14, 2024 in Celebration, Florida, at the age of 89. He was born on February 23, 1935, to the late Dwight Leo Fears and Addie Aline Skidmore in Fittstown, Oklahoma. Kenn had an incredibly brilliant mind and heart. From a young age, he had a thirst to learn more about the world. His life was his music, but he also was a voracious reader. He enjoyed puzzles, Sudoku, chess, and riddles. When he was in high school, he met his perfect match in Janet Fears (neé Person) who complimented his intellect beautifully. Even though Kenn and Janet married in 1955, they were a “Class Couple” in high school in 1951 and have been sweethearts ever since. After high school, he obtained his first degree at Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Kenn then joined the Seventeenth Expeditionary Air Force in 1953 and was also the first chair flutist of the headquarters band during his time overseas. When he returned from Libya in 1958, he attended North Texas State College, and then in 1962 moved to New Haven, Connecticut with Janet to attend Yale University. They remained there until joining family in Florida in 2018. Throughout their time in Connecticut, they grew their family with the births of their two daughters, Carol and Ginger. Kenn was a celebrated and dedicated musician and educator. He played the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and more. He was the first flutist in the Bridgeport Symphony for many years and played the piccolo for the New Haven Symphony. His talent also carried him to perform as the principal woodwind in Stratford, Connecticut at the American Shakespeare Theater. This sparked his interest in theater, and Kenn went on to perform in many Off-Broadway shows. In addition to being an incredible recital musician, Kenn was also a gifted teacher. He taught music at Staples High School, Cheshire Academy, Choate Rosemary Hall, and the University of Bridgeport. His skills as a musician and teacher were invaluable in all settings. Aside from his professional career, Kenn was also very involved in the Masonic Lodges throughout the years. He served his lodge as a 33rd degree Mason and a member of Ansantawae Lodge. He received the accolades of being elected Worshipful Master of Daytime Lodge #144 A.F. & A.M., Most Excellent High Priest of Milford Chapter #49 R.A.M., Thrice Illustrious Master of Adam Sattig Council #125 R. & S.M., Eminent Commander of Hamilton Commandery #5 Knights Templar, and Worthy Patron of Lucia Chapter #25 OES. His dedication to brotherhood was one of the many passions in his life. Kenn is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 68 years, Janet Fears. He is affectionately remembered by his two daughters, CarolAline Flaumenhaft and Virginia Strong, and his son-in-law, Alan Flaumenhaft. He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Ellie, Lauren, Colin, and Jack Flaumenhaft as well as Sydney and Melanie Sherrick. Kenn was predeceased by his parents and two sisters, Anita Louise Hearnsberger and Virginia Alice Fears. A private ceremony to honor and celebrate Kenn will be held at Windsor at Celebration in Celebration, Florida on May 4th, 2024, at 1:30pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Kenn’s name. The funeral arrangements are being handled by Cremation Care Providers of Central Florida in Kissimmee, Florida.

Kenneth E Fears

February 23, 1935 - April 14, 2024