Linus Wayne Kinner

Linus Wayne Kinner, a devoted family man peacefully passed away on January 14, 2026, at the McClure Miller Respite House, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 5, 1931, in Wayne, New York, and lived an extraordinary life filled with purpose, service, and compassion.

Linus's career was marked by his exceptional dedication and remarkable achievements. He began his professional journey at one of the big eight Accounting Firms in New York City. His career continued to flourish as he took up roles at Nixon Gear in Syracuse and later settled in Watertown as the director of Bowmax, Gould, INC. He became a partner at Dermondy, Burke and Brown Accounting Firm before moving to Vermont, where he served as an auditor and ultimately rose to the position of vice president at Green Mountain Power. Linus also contributed his expertise as an auditor for Vermont Electric Co-op and consulted for various startups. He was the proud owner and operator of Milton Pallet Company and served as the town of Milton Lister, rounding out his illustrious career as a janitor at New England Bowling in Colchester.

As a lifelong learner, Linus graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor's Degree in Business, established himself as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).and went on to earn a Master of Science from St. Michael's College, 

Those who knew Linus would describe him as particular and detail-oriented, with a heart full of concern for the underdog. His commitment to community service was unwavering; he actively participated in charities, including "Make A Wish" and served on multiple boards, donating blood countless times—a true testament to his generosity.

A man of diverse interests, Linus had a profound love for music, enjoying genres such as jazz, country, gospel, and instrumental. He embraced hobbies such as building model planes—complete with a pilot's license—which reflected his adventurous spirit. His joy for bowling, model trains, and the G train track he built at Lake Champlain in Milton epitomized his playful side. Linus was also known for his dedication to dragon boating as a cherished member of Dragon Heart Vermont. He and his wife, Judith, were avid travelers, touring to many countries. They enjoyed their time in Alaska and Hawaii. Linus enjoyed the yearly family camping trips.

Throughout his life, Linus was deeply involved in various organizations, including the Lions Club, Rotary International, American Legion, Free Masons, and the Eagles Club. He played an active role in the National Association of Accountants at both local and state levels, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and commitment.

Linus's military service during the Korean Conflict marked another chapter in his remarkable journey. He served as a medic, earning a Purple Heart, Combat Medic Badge, and National Defense Service Medal, completing his duty with a year in Japan. This experience shaped him into the compassionate and dedicated person many came to know and love.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of fifty years, Judith Smith Kinner, with whom he shared countless cherished memories. Linus is also survived by his son Eric and his wife Danita Hathaway Kinner, his daughters Donna Kane and Robin McIntosh, grandchildren Jennifer, Monica, Jessica, Ethan, Liberty, and John  and four great-grandchildren, Haylee, Kali, Logan and Kora, all of whom he adored.

Linus is reunited in spirit with his parents, Martha Mellon and Edgar Kinner, along with his siblings Joyce Robbins and Bud Kinner, who have passed before him.

A burial service will be held on January 30, 2026, at 11 am in Vermont Veterans Cemetery in Randolph, VT, where family and friends will gather to celebrate a life well-lived. Linus Wayne Kinner will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him, a gentle soul whose legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to inspire all.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation the McClure Miller Respite House.