Joseph Kennedy

Florence, Wis. — Joseph G. Kennedy, 71, of Florence, Wis., passed away Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2018, at his home.

He was born Jan. 10, 1947, in New London, son of the late Hubert and June (Schwartz) Kennedy. Joe grew up in Groton, and was a graduate of St. Bernard High School, Class of 1965. Following his graduation, he enlisted into the U.S. Air Force and served until his honorable discharge in 1968. Upon his return to Connecticut, Joe was employed first at Electric Boat and then at Pfizer, Inc. where he worked until his retirement in 2008. Joe’s career was fairly unique as he began as a chemical operator in the plant and ended his career as an assistant director in the pathology department. He loved each and every one of his colleagues and took great pride in their success. On Jan. 8, 1977, Joe was united in marriage to Alane Vross and together they resided in Connecticut. In 2008, Joe and Alane moved to Florence to pursue his passions old and new, sharing with his sons and grandson.

Joe enjoyed fishing, target shooting, the outdoors, snow shoeing, and especially the time he spent with his family. He loved to laugh and had a wicked dry sense of humor. Joe was rarely without a book in his hand.

Survivors include his loving wife, Alane; two sons, Duncan (Amanda) Kennedy of Ledyard and Evan (Ashley) Kennedy of Jewett City; two daughters, Kimberly (Lee Joe) Lay of Boise, Idaho and Melissa Steinhauser of Texas; five sisters, Ellen Kennedy of Arkansas, Emily Meade of Florida, Kathy (Paul) Umland of Connecticut, Elizabeth Kennedy of Rhode Island and Amy (David) Valente of Connecticut; eight grandchildren, Grant, Carter, Penelope, Kelsea, Kylee, Amber, Hannah and Autumn; and by two great-grandchildren, Russell and Peyton.

In accordance with Joe’s wishes, private family services will be held.

You may light a candle in remembrance of Joseph or leave a condolence for his family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com.

The family has chosen the Jacobs-Lundholm Funeral Home, Florence, Wis., to honor Joseph’s legacy of life.