WESTFIELD – William E. Kieda, Sr. passed away on March 19, 2023 at the age of 92. He was a cherished and very loved Father, Grandfather (“Papa”), and Great-Grandfather. He was hugely dedicated to family and was always generously there for anyone who needed him. He was born in Westfield, Massachusetts on February 12, 1931 to Catherine E. Kieda (Humason). A lifelong Westfield resident he was involved in many civic and philanthropic activities including being on the Westfield Parks and Recreation Committee and chairing it for many years. He initiated and chaired the Grandmothers’ Garden Trust Fund Committee and worked tirelessly to bring Grandmother’s Garden back to its former glory. He was a member of the Masons and was also an NRA Qualified Sharpshooter. He generously donated to many charitable organizations including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; Wounded Warrior Project; St. Joseph’s Indian School; and SouthWest Reservation Aid. He was a Boy Scout Master for years and through his hard work and selfless dedication he helped many young boys grow into responsible citizens. He enjoyed collecting antiques and was a devoted animal lover. He was a sports lover throughout his life and was a huge fan of the Red Sox, Bruins, and Patriots. He was also the biggest fan for all of his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. He played softball, bowling, and horseshoes and won numerous individual and team championships. He also was an avid golfer at Southwick Country Club scoring a hole-in-one in 1998 (after only playing for six years) and then another hole-in-one 16 years later at the age of 83. He was the Senior Club Champion several times. He was always ready with a joke and did an impressive stand-up comedy act. Papa had a huge heart and will be forever missed and loved.
He leaves behind his Son Maj. William E. Kieda, Jr. (“Billy”) and his wife Mary of Bolivia North Carolina; his Daughter Roxanne K. Pomeroy and her husband Gary of Burlington, Connecticut; Grandchildren Catherine Gkotsis (Pomeroy) and her husband Efthymios of Wyckoff, New Jersey; Kevin Kieda of Fitchburg, Massachusetts; Alex Kieda of Bethel, Connecticut; and Veronica Pomeroy of Bronxville, New York; and Great-Granddaughter Alexandra Gkotsis. He also leaves behind many other extended family members and dear friends including his former wife Carol A. Aiken (and her predeceased husband William G. Aiken, Jr.); their Daughter Lisa Picazo, her husband Louie, and their children Olivia and Ava; his former daughter-in-law Kristen Kieda; and step-granddaughters Margo Davis and Tanya Ragonesi.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 29th from 4-7 pm at the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 30th at 2 pm in Pine Hill Cemetery, Westfield. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project or to the charity of your choice. Firtionadams.com
