Kenneth R. Wirf

West Brookfield – Kenneth R. Wirf, Sr., 72, of West Brookfield, passed away on December 5, 2025, at UMass Harrington Memorial Hospital in Southbridge. Born in Worcester on October 23, 1953, he was the son of the late George O. and Claire C. (Desroches) Wirf and was predeceased by his brother, Brian Wirf.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Sandra M. (Foote) Wirf; four sons, Kenneth R. Wirf, II, Thomas R. Wirf, John A. Wirf, and Joshua R. Joubert; one daughter, Michelle L. Joubert; and eleven grandchildren. He is also fondly remembered by Adam Macmillan, who looked to him as an adopted grandfather. Ken will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Ken’s dedication to community service began early. At 16, he joined the West Brookfield Fire Auxiliary and became a call firefighter at 18. After moving to Ware, he served with the Ware Fire Department before continuing his work in Leicester with the Fire Department, Ambulance, Rescue Squad, and Dive Team. As an EMT, he was especially proud to have assisted in delivering a baby boy and a set of twins.

His commitment to public service continued when he moved to Florida, where he enjoyed a successful career as a Transportation Supervisor with the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority before retiring. Retirement, however, did not keep him from his passion. Upon returning to West Brookfield, he rejoined the West Brookfield Fire Department, serving faithfully until age 70. He also contributed as a fire photographer, always cheering on his brothers and sisters from the sidelines.

Beyond firefighting, Ken was an active and dedicated member of several community organizations. He participated in the Central Mass Sparks, Rehab 78, and the Brookfield Rod & Gun Club, where he became known for cooking Sunday breakfast during turkey shoot competitions. He was also a proud member of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club and served as a Men’s Class C & D World Series umpire for USSSA at Walt Disney World in 2001 and 2002.

Calling hours for Ken will be held Friday, December 19, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Varnum Funeral Home, 43 East Main St., in West Brookfield. A Funeral Service celebrating his life will follow on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the West Brookfield Firefighters Association, P.O. Box 372, West Brookfield, MA 01585, the West Brookfield Rescue Squad, PO Box 540, West Brookfield, MA 01585, or the Leicester Firefighters Association, Attn: Donations, PO Box 377, Leicester, MA 01524.

An online tribute page is available at varnumfuneralhome.com.