Northampton, MA – Kenneth S. Westort, 83, of Northampton, passed away on Wednesday November 5, 2025, at Linda Manor Extended Care Facility. He was born in Northampton on March 10, 1942, to the late William and Mabel (Januskewicz) Westort.
He graduated from Northampton High School, where he stood out as a talented trumpet player in the school band. He met and fell in love with Veralyn King and later married on June 12th, 1965, and spent 57 years together before her passing in 2022. Following his passion for engineering, he pursued higher education at Western New England College, earning a degree in engineering. While attending college, Ken gained practical experience by working part-time for Lerma Engineering. Determined to further his expertise, he attended night classes and successfully achieved his master’s degree as an optical engineer.
Ken’s professional career was marked by significant leadership and innovation. He dedicated 21 years to Kollmorgen, where he rose to the position of vice president. Later, Ken relocated to Ithaca, New York, and established his own company, Optical Products Development (OPD) Corporation, embarking on a new chapter as an entrepreneur in the optical engineering field.
In addition to his professional achievements, Ken was an avid outdoorsman. He found great joy in outdoor activities, especially hunting and fishing, which became cherished pastimes throughout his life.
He is survived by his sons, Mark Westort and his wife Christina of Northampton, Robert Westort of Northampton and his fiancée Tia Collins and her daughter Ashley Allis both of Montague, his daughter Amy Westort of Worcester, his brother David Westort of Plainfield, grandson Tanner Westort of Northampton, nephews, Aaron, and Steven, and niece Jackie.
All services will be conducted privately at the family’s convenience. DROZDAL FUNERAL HOME, 120 DAMON ROAD, NORTHAMPTON, is honored to have been entrusted with these arrangements.
For additional information or to offer personal condolences to the family, please visit Drozdalfuneralhome.com.
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