Obituary of Kenneth D. Adams

Kenneth Douglas “Ken” Adams, 92, formerly of Madison, more recently of Morristown passed away on June 4, 2024 peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Summit, Ken graduated from Summit High School. Ken proudly served his country as a Private in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

He then resided in Madison until moving to Morristown 23 years ago.

Ken worked as a Senior Research and Development Engineer/Inventor for Singer Sewing Machine Company, Elizabethport, NJ from 1950-1988. While at Singer, he designed multiple inventions for sewing machines and other mechanical systems, 60 of which received patents.

Ken was awarded a “Doctorate of Engineering” (Honorary) from Clarkson University, which he received based on his lifetime experiences and patents.

Ken was also a parishioner of St. Vincent Martyr Church, Madison, NJ.

Ken loved the outdoors.  He was a lifetime fisherman who enjoyed spending time on a boat with his wife, children and friends.  He often travelled with his son, Garrett, and friends to Montana and Saskatchewan for long hunting trips. 

Service to others was an unspoken part of Ken’s life.   Without the expectation of recognition, Ken took satisfaction in helping others by using his gifts of invention and repair.  Because he was widely known for his ability to fix anything, normally without instructions or purchased parts, he was often approached for help.  His inventive mind would take the time to assess the problem, design a solution, and then build or repair the project.  His extensive workshop housed all the tools he needed and was envied by all who visited it.

Ken is survived by his devoted children, Kevin Garrett Adams, Dr. Allison Adams, and her husband, Terrence Gilligan, Merynda Adams, and her husband, Andrew Filippone, and Shannon Pengitore. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Sean Gilligan, and his wife, Dr. Kathleen Sullivan, Kendall Gilligan, Reilly Gilligan, Jake Pengitore, Brody Pengitore, Cory Pengitore, Dean Filippone, and Amanda Filippone, as well as his adored great-grandchildren, Mary, Patrick and Erin.

Ken was predeceased by his beloved wife, Amy, in March 2024. The love between Ken and Amy was truly evident, with only a few months between each of them passing.

A Memorial Mass for Ken will be held on Monday, June 10, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Vincent Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison, NJ. Interment of Ashes will follow at St. Vincent’s Cemetery, Madison, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in memory of Ken may be made to: Pluckemin Medical Equipment Ministry (https://ppcmem.org/).