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Kenneth “Kenny” George Atwood, 79, died peacefully at Middlesex Hospital on May 15, after a brief but tough battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family while they traded stories about his jokes, humor, and gentle teasing of his wife. He was born Aug. 4, 1941, at Middlesex Hospital, was a lifelong resident of Deep River, and never wanted to leave Deep River.

He was a loving husband to his wife, Mary Ann (Chester) and they were close to celebrating 50 years together. Kenny is survived by his daughter, Sarah and her husband Giuliano Cirillo, whom Kenny adored, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Christopher Birdsey and Katherine Elizabeth Cirillo, all of Deep River. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Eileen (Chester) Daverio of Plainville, beloved family friend Michelle Fiala of Essex, and his aunt, Elizabeth (Lanzi) Tremaligia of Chester, as well as many cousins. Kenny also leaves behind his beloved Labrador, Max, who has been his shadow for the last 15 years. Kenny was predeceased by his mother and adoptive father, Ruth (Peckham) and George Atwood; his biological father, Herman Lanzi; and several aunts and uncles.

Kenny graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and was the top of his class. He would go on to be a chef in many of the local restaurants including The Gelston House and Dock and Dine, just to name a few. Kenny finished his culinary career as the head steward of the Old Lyme Country Club. While Kenny did not continue to cook professionally, he continued to cook at home much to the delight of his wife and he was renowned for his stuffed lobsters and prime rib. As a second career, he owned and operated his own home improvement business and worked on many homes in Deep River and surrounding towns.

Kenny loved his dogs especially his girl, Chutney. Kenny and Chutney were always seen around town, riding around in his truck. Chutney would wait patiently in the truck every morning while Kenny was having breakfast at The Short Stop in the center of town. Kenny was happiest at home and building projects in his workshop. He will be remembered fondly by his family for his humor, his craftmanship, and the ability to make his wife laugh.

Kenny’s family would like to thank the staff at Middlesex Health Primary Care in Chester for the wonderful and exceptional care he received. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be sent in his name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Connecticut Humane Society.

Family and friends are invited to join the family at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 21 at Deep River Congregational Church in Deep River, for his funeral service. Burial will follow at Fountain Hill Cemetery in Deep River. The Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home is in care of the arrangements. To share a memory of Kenny or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com.