Obituary of Kenneth R. Demas

Wevertown: Kenneth Demas died unexpectedly on May 10, 2017, at the age of 72. He was born in the Bronx, attended Columbus High School, and graduated from Long Island University with a degree in Physical Education. After living, working, and raising his family in Mamaroneck, NY, Ken retired to Wevertown, NY where his family resides. Ken is survived by his wife of 45 years, Claire, and his two loving children, Collin and Corey. He also leaves behind his brothers, Joseph and Robert and Roberts’s wife Reary, his nieces Reary, Jody, and Jamie, and three grand-nephews, John, Dylan, and Ethan. Ken enjoyed a long career teaching and coaching baseball and wrestling in Mamaroneck. He was an innovator and a game changer, revolutionizing the way physical education was taught in New York schools. He won countless awards, including being named NY State Middle School Teacher of the Year. Ken was passionate about education. He helped pioneer Adventure Education and ran leadership workshops for future professionals. He was the often honored and respected leader of the New York State AHPERD (Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance). His long service culminated with the Lifetime Achievement Award last year. Ken met his wife, Claire, while they were counselors at Camp Echo Lake in Warrensburg. Along with his brother Joe, they built a home in Wevertown in the 1970s. Here they spent summers camping, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors, skied each winter, and provided a second home for much of the family. “Ken and Claire’s house” will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his adoring family. Ken was idolized by all who knew and loved him, but perhaps none more than his three grand-nephews who he helped form into amazing young men. He was devoted to his friends and family, his big brothers and his children, and of course to Claire. Memories of Ken’s quick-witted humor and big heart will be cherished by us all. A memorial service to celebrate Ken’s life will be conducted at 1 pm, Monday, May 15, 2017 at the Alexander Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg. Family and friends may call on Ken’s family one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you send a donation to the foundation that meant so much to Ken, the NYS APHERD Foundation. Please click here to donate. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guest book, condolences, and directions.