Michael Laskin Kinsler, better known to others as Cal, Dad, Pop, or Mr K, age 70, passed away suddenly on March 22, 2024. Everyone who knew him knows how much he loved to tell stories. We wish that we could share some outrageous story that led to his untimely death. Unfortunately, he died of a heart attack with his beloved wife Martha and his adored bulldog Rocco by his side.

Michael was born and raised in Longmeadow, MA. He attended Williston Northampton School where his passion for sports began. He was a four year letterman in soccer, lacrosse, and ice hockey. He went on to study zoology and environmental science at the University of Vermont, graduating with a bachelor of science. He would have graduated in four years but he met the love of his life Martha McCanna and followed the theme of one of his favorite movies, Animal House, graduating seven years later. He obtained his masters degree at Antioch University of New England. His passion for learning was such that he went on to further his education for years beyond receiving his diplomas.

His first teaching position was at Rutland Town Elementary School where he was a science and math teacher for 21 years. Let’s not forget what a great sex education teacher he was. Never were his students so focused as they were in those classes. Michael accepted a position as a math teacher in 2000 at Barstow Memorial School, retiring in 2015. For nearly a decade he was the Girls Varsity Soccer coach at Rutland High School. He was recognized by his peers and was awarded Teacher of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Referee of the Year. Rumor has it that in 43 years refereeing he only made one bad call.
He was a man of diverse hobbies and interests including Chittenden dump socializer, Ben and Jerry’s connoisseur, expert organic gardener, Baird Farm enthusiast, pumpkin growing competitor, frog catcher, afternoon napper, king of leftovers, fierce competitor of the New York Times mini crossword, Wordle, and connections, vacuum apprentice, 60’s on 6 classic rock listener, passionate Boston Sports Fan, weatherman, snowman builder, famous ice candle maker, builder and man of all trades.

He leaves his best friend and beloved wife of 54 years Martha McCanna Kinsler of Chittenden, VT; adored children Dr. Erron Kinsler of Phoenix, AZ, Micah Kinsler and his wife Samantha Hodar of Scottsdale, AZ, Annah and her husband Dr. Gregory Sawyer of Cape Elizabeth, ME, and Jared Kinsler, Esq. and his wife Brianne of Sudbury, MA. He also leaves behind nine treasured grandchildren Eli Kinsler; Madison, Taylor, and Olivia Kinsler; Lylah, Jude, and Levi Sawyer; and Sloane and Tatum Kinsler. He is also survived by his cherished sister SueAnn Spahr, husband David, and their family of Scottsdale, AZ. He is predeceased by many family and friends, and his bulldogs Bertha and Brutus.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday March 30, 2024, from 1-3 pm at Mountain Top Inn and Resort. A private burial will happen at a later date.

Everyone who knew him knows how much he loved nature and valued preserving the beauty of this world, from animals to trees to rivers and lakes to gardening and birdwatching out his kitchen window. He began each morning checking his game camera to see what magnificent creature visited during the night. In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions can be made in his name to Vermont Land Trust VLT.org 8 Bailey Avenue Montpelier, VT 05602 or Four Winds Nature Institute https://fwni.org 4 Casey Road Chittenden, VT 05737.

Most importantly, Michael would want everyone to pause, be in the moment, and enjoy nature. Whether it be kayaking, watching bald eagles, going for a hike, catching a brook trout, or swimming in a fresh body of water. Breathe in the fresh air and think of him.