ED MCKENNA
On Friday March 26, 2021 Edmund Arthur McKenna passed away in the comforts of his home. Born on August 31, 1929 in San Francisco, CA to parents Edmund and Mildred McKenna. Ed, eldest of three children born to Edmund and Mildred, his siblings included Robert McKenna and Lois McKenna Tolles.
Ed married Patsy (Ernst) on November 25, 1951. He was a devoted husband until her passing on December 19, 2000. Together they raised a daughter, Connie (McKenna) French. Ed is preceded in death by his parents, Edmund and Mildred McKenna, his beloved wife Patsy McKenna, and brother Robert McKenna. He is survived by his sister Lois (McKenna) Tolles, daughters Connie (McKenna) French and Patty Sterling, granddaughters Rachel French, Caitlin French, Jill Beane, greatgrandchildren (5) and great-great-grandchildren (1).
Ed proudly served in the US Navy from December 1950 until October 1954, on the USS Henry W. Tucker DDR 875, as a Boiler Tender II and Oil King. He enthusiastically shared stories of his adventures aboard ship and his love for being on the open sea.
He was a business owner, along with his business partner Ron Craig, they purchased Jack’s Auto Wrecking in 1964, which was eventually renamed Jack’s Dismantlers. They were in business together until 1987. Ed purchased a semi-truck and hauled for Knudsen/Smuckers until his retirement in 2008. Ed had a love for automobiles, over his lifetime he could be found purchasing, restoring and selling many classic cars, as well as his Bonanza airplane.
Ed was a member of Chico Bible Fellowship, where he was active in his congregation, and could often be found taking immaculate care of the rose garden. Ed was an American Patriot, he loved his wife Patsy, he honored America, and loved all things Made in America. Ed touched many lives and he will be deeply missed.
Ed will be honored and celebrated at a graveside ceremony at the Glen Oaks Memorial Park on Friday April 9th at 11:00 AM.
The family welcomes flowers for the service, or those wishing to make a donation in his honor, may do so to Field of Dreams, Inc. or Tin Can Sailors, Inc. in care of the Brusie Funeral Home.