Kenneth MacWhinnie Of Sag Harbor Dies

Kenneth MacWhinnie of Sag Harbor died May 23, 2022, from complications of cancer. He was 60.

Born in Bay Shore, he moved with his family to Southampton when he was 12, attended and graduated from Southampton High School, and later attended SUNY Suffolk Community College.

He met his wife, Donna, when she was 17 and he was 21. They were married in September 1990 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Southampton, having found their soul mates. They had two boys, Dane Lorin and Liam Scott.

Survivors said MacWhinnie was so proud of the men his boys became and was fortunate to have known and spent time with the wonderful women who share their lives, noting before he died that Gwen Clarke is the perfect complement to Dane, as is Megan Williams to Liam.

MacWhinnie’s parents, Morgan and Gerrodette MacWhinnie of Southampton, taught him the beauty from things of the past. From his mother, he learned kindness, compassion and generosity. From his father, an appreciation for hard work, commitment and craftsmanship, thus attributing to his skills and finesse as a skilled carpenter for over 40 years. When construction became a challenge, he began a new career with The Retreat in East Hampton. He had the utmost respect for what The Retreat stood for and with his selflessness and caring for people, he knew he belonged there, survivors said.

It was at his family beach house in the Cherry Grove community of Fire Island that he relaxed and left the stresses of life behind. He spent many summers at “DuneTop” as a child with his family including his great-grandparents, Ronald and Irene Gerrodette, and his grandparents, George and Jeanne Skinner. His children were fortunate to experience the same childhood as their father. DuneTop was his place to unwind with friends and family.

MacWhinnie was an avid fisherman and shared many “fish tails.” He loved the outdoors and took advantage of all the four seasons had to offer.

Those who were fortunate to know him, knew when he told a story, no detail was left out. He loved to share his knowledge with everyone whether it was a story from his beloved Newsday or National Geographic, something he saw on the news or just any story he found interesting enough to share. His smile could brighten anyone’s heart. His wife often said, “Ken has never met a stranger that hasn’t become a friend.”

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Donna; sons Dane, 27, and Liam, 21. He also leaves his father and mother, Morgan and Gerri; brothers Scott and Kerry and partner Stephanie Abrahams and sister Susan Inez. Also surviving him are his in-laws, John and Gail Sundquist, and Paul Russell Sr. and partner Marilyn Block; sisters in-law Pamela Healey and partner Ronald Tallon, Stacey Russell and partner Welton Taylor, Christine Harmon and husband Michael, Alicia Owen and husband Neal, Abbie Dermody and husband Eamonn; brother in-law Paul Russell Jr. and wife Margarita. Many nieces and nephews further added to his wonderful life.

Survivors said MacWhinnie lived his life to the fullest and although he faced challenges with this disease, he never let it take away his courage and hope. He was the brightest light that shall always remain on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Memorial donations may be made to The Retreat, 13 Goodfriend Drive, East Hampton, NY 11937 or allagainstabuse.org.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Brockett Funeral Home in Southampton.