Donald H. Kibbe

Donald H. Kibbe, 89, passed away January 12, 2023 at Baystate Medical Center. Don was born on November 16, 1933 in Stafford Springs, CT, son of the late Alfred and Edna May (Peck) Kibbe. He was one of the 11th generation of family members of the Kibbe family born in America. Don grew up in East Longmeadow and attended Centre School. He graduated from Technical High School in 1951 and went to work at Standard Electric Time Company where he learned to repair electrical timing equipment. In the early 1960’s, he repaired a timing unit for Walt Disney Studios.

In 1955, he met the love of his life, Agnes “Betty” Pieczarka and they were married in 1957. In 1963, longing for the outdoors, he left Standard Electric Time and went to work at Franks Market Garden. Here he learned how to grow plants from seed. When the owner retired, Don leased the business for 3 years. Don and Betty then bought a 20 acre farm in Ludlow with a 200 year old house. After much renovation and updating, they started The Windmill Farm and Garden Center. The thriving farm became well known throughout the area for growing quality plants.

Don leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of 65 years, Agnes “Betty” Kibbe; 3 treasured daughters, Diane McCarthy and her husband Wayne of Annapolis, MD, Karen Pilon and her husband Kent of Ludlow, and Sarah Burek of Ludlow; his grandchildren, Rory Bouchard, Meredith McCullough, Nathan Pilon, Audrey Pilon, Jacob Burek and Megan Burek; 6 great-grandchildren, Ethan and Hunter Bouchard, Max and Trevor McCollough and Savannah and Cheyenne Pilon, along with several nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 from 4-7pm at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Avenue, Indian Orchard. The funeral will be held on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 11am at the funeral home followed by burial at Island Pond Cemetery, Ludlow.

The family asks everyone to wear flannel, plaid, or casual attire to honor Don’s wishes.

To offer online condolences, please visit www.nowakfuneral.com.

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