Kenneth F. Erskine Was Veteran, Social Worker

Kenneth Fraser Erskine of New York, N.Y., who for more than two decades spent August with family and friends in Oak Bluffs, died June 15 of lung cancer.

Mr. Erskine was born in Harlem, N.Y., on Nov. 9, 1919 to Ida Ellard Erskine and Luther Fraser Erskine, and grew up in Harlem at a time when Harlem was in vogue.

He attended The Townsend Harris School and later City College. He received his master's degree in social work from Columbia University.

During his youth, The Savoy and The Renaissance Ballrooms were world-famous for their music and their dancing. Ken and his friends often went out to dance four nights a week.

He served honorably in the Army Air Force during World War II.

He became a licensed clinical social worker, and practiced and taught social work in and for the city of New York, Columbia University and Harlem Hospital.

In 1952 he married Maria L. Clarke, whom he had met at a party held at his own house. In 1954 they had their first child, a son, Clarke Stuart Erskine. In 1957 their second son, Lewis Fraser Erskine, was born.

Mr. Erskine cherished the time he spent on the Vineyard, and family and friends cherished that time spent with him, whether a trip to a favorite art gallery or winery, a day at the beach, or just time spent cooking and eating, laughing and talking.

He is survived by his wife and sons, a daughter in law, Carol Penn Erskine, and a grandson, Keita Omowale Erskine.

His ashes were interred at the Trinity Cemetery and Mausoleum during a private funeral. A public memorial is being planned for the fall.

Condolences may be sent to Maria C. Erskine, 17 Ft. George Hill, New York, NY 10040.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to The Kenneth Erskine Fund, c/o Manhattan Country School, 7 East 96th street, New York, NY 10128.