Kenneth M. Ayer, 71, of Norridgewock passed away peacefully Monday June 27, 2016 surrounded by his loving family in Augusta, Maine. He was born April 27, 1945 in Bangor, Maine, the son of Robert W. Ayer and Geneva F. (Morrison) Ayer. Ken was educated in Brewer area schools, served briefly in the US Army, then went on to manage several retail stores before starting his career at International Paper Company in Jay in 1989, later it became Verso Paper Company, he worked in the stock prep area of the mill until his retirement in 2009. He married Nancy Woods Michonski on July 11, 1992 in Skowhegan, Maine. Ken was a member of the Mason Oxford Lodge #18 in Norway. He loved the game of golf and enjoyed playing at several different courses throughout Maine and Myrtle Beach, SC where he often vacationed with Nancy and their family. Ken especially loved spending time with his family, his quick wit and sense of humor kept everyone on their toes and always made gatherings fun and memorable. He also enjoyed many other activities including boating, camping and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. He is survived by his wife Nancy of Norridgewock; three daughters, Lynda Young of Mesa AZ, Bobbie-Jo Ayer-Grenier and her husband Larry of Monmouth, Paula Douglas and her husband Wendell of Troy; one brother, Ernest Ayer and his wife Crystal of Brewer; sister-in-law, Peggy Ayer of Hampden; one step-son Bruce Michonski and companion Cathy McCarthy of Norridgewock; daughter-in-law Melissa Michonski of Smithfield; nine grandchildren, Kerstin Grenier, Dakota Douglas, Tyler Young, Brittany Young, Gradey Michonski, Trey Michonski, Makaela Michonski, Brooke Michonski, Alexis Michonski; several nieces. He was predeceased by his mother and father, one brother Robert Ayer and his stepson Brian Michonski. Special thanks to Dr. Lorraine Paradis for all the special care she has given Ken throughout the years. A graveside service will be held at the Village Cemetery in Smithfield, Maine Sunday July 10 th at 1:00 pm. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave., Skowhegan, Maine. Donations may be made in Ken’s memory to the COPD Foundation, 3300 Ponce De Leon Blvd, Miami, Florida, 33134