KENNEDY John Patrick

Passed peacefully away at the Health Science Centre on Saturday May 30, 2020, John Patrick Kennedy, age 77 years. He leaves behind his loving wife of 54 years Margaret Kennedy (Duggan) and sister Rose Ann Evans (Bruce Anstey). Predeceased by his parents Ted and Nance Kennedy (Nugent); sister Brenda Rossiter (Bill); stepmother Margie Kennedy (Nolan); and special Aunt Mary Nolan. Left with fond and loving memories are his three children: Deanne (Gerald) Handrigan, St. John’s, Denise (Tony) Randell, Oakville, Ontario and Johnny (Pauline) Kennedy, of Mount Pearl. Poppy K had a special place in his heart for each of his grandchildren: Nicholas, Katherine, Patrick, Benjamin, Sarah, Robert, and Jenni. He cherished his special time with each of his grandchildren – life chats, breakfasts, concerts, graduations, sports, waterslides, zip-lining, parasailing, and letting them borrow his Mercedes convertible. They will treasure these life experiences with him and miss him dearly. Also sharing in his loss are a large circle of brothers-in-law, sistersin-law, nieces and nephews; his best buddies Bill Sinnott and Bern Cook; and all his walking friends at the gym. In all these relationships, John was a person to depend on and was always there when needed. John lived by his words, “Be a leader not a follower”. John was an advocate for youth in St. John’s and wanted everyone to have an equal opportunity to participate. Being an active member of the PTA, he was fully engaged in his children’s schools. He led youth sports initiatives provincially in softball, especially Waterford Valley, and hockey with local, regional, and national events. John is also recognized as starting the first female high school hockey league. He will be dearly missed by all the people he has come to know during his years working with ACOA, Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador and his life of actively participating in his community. Special thank you to Dr. Patrick O’shea, Dr. Susan Mercer and the medical team for their kindness and exemplary care. Also a special thanks to the ladies from Coombs Compassionate Home Care who provided support to our family. Cremation has taken place at Caul’s Funeral Home. A private family funeral will be held at St. Teresa’s Church at 11:00 am, June 3rd, with interment to follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery. Due to COVID-19 circumstances, there will not be a public funeral or visitation. A Celebration of John’s Life will take place at a later date. Donations can be made in his memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Newfoundland & Labrador. To send a message of condolence or stream this service live please visit www.cauls.ca.