Donald Richard Kennedy

"With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Don Kennedy, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who departed this life on Saturday, July 20, 2024. Born on July 30, 1940, Don was a man whose life was defined by love, generosity, and an infectious laugh that could brighten the darkest days.

Don was the beloved husband of Marilyn, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and unwavering companionship. Their love story was one of mutual respect, deep affection, and shared joy. Together, they adopted and raised two wonderful children, Keith and Daun, whom Don cherished with all his heart.

As a father, Don was nothing short of extraordinary. He was always present for Keith and Daun, nurturing them with boundless love and care. He went above and beyond to create magical childhoods, building playhouses and crafting soap box derby cars, fostering both imagination and adventure. His dedication extended to his grandchildren, who were fortunate to experience his profound love and the special joy he brought into their lives.

Don's laughter was a gift to all who knew him. It was warm, infectious, and had the power to uplift anyone who heard it. He was quick with a joke, always ready with a witty remark that could lighten any mood and bring smiles to faces. His humor was an integral part of his character, making him a joy to be around and a friend to many.

Don had a lifelong passion for racing and cars. His knowledge of automobiles was unparalleled, and he loved sharing his expertise with family and friends. Whether it was building soap box derby cars for his children or working on complex car restorations, Don's enthusiasm for racing and mechanics was evident in every project he undertook. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to fix anything with an engine.

Handy and resourceful, Don was the go-to person for any construction or remodeling project. He helped family and friends build sheds, remodel homes, and tackle various DIY projects, always arriving with his tools and a ready smile. His ability to transform a vision into reality was admired by all who knew him.

Don was proud to be a member of the Knights of Columbus and was a Past Grand Knight of the Msgr. Bernard P. Sheridan Council 6138 as well as a Fourth Degree Knight with the Bishop Chatard Assembly #0245.  He loved his church, Our Lady of the Greenwood, and volunteered with various ministries like the food pantry; he also enjoyed helping with all the church festivals.  

Don leaves behind his devoted wife, Marilyn (Doyle) Kennedy; his loving children, Keith (Jennifer) Kennedy and Daun (Jack, II.) Hobbs; his adored grandchildren, Kandice Hobbs, Jack Hobbs, III., Kaitlin Kennedy, Aidan Kennedy, Kiley Kennedy and Alaina Kennedy; great-grandchildren, Jack Hobbs, IV., Nick Saunders, Willow Mueller, Sophia Hobbs and Gracelyn Lasley; and a legacy of love, laughter, and unparalleled generosity. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Ramona (Moody) Kennedy; and siblings, Ruth Anne Kennedy-Longstreet, George Kennedy and Kathleen Kennedy.  His spirit of helpfulness, his remarkable skills, and his quick wit will be remembered and cherished by his family and friends.

Family and friends will gather on Friday, July 26, 2024, from 1 to 2 p.m. in Our Lady of the Greenwood Catholic Church, 335 S. Meridian St., Greenwood.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow in the church at 2 p.m. with Fr. Todd M. Goodson presiding. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to assist with Don’s final arrangements.  Envelopes with be provided at the church.  To leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.LauckFuneralHome.com 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald Richard Kennedy, please visit our floral store.