Obituary of John J. Kenney

Obituary On July 28, 2021 John J Kenney, Sr. passed on to his Heavenly home through his faith in Jesus Christ’s redemptive work. John was born October 17, 1936 in Bradford, PA. In 1942, his family bought a house and small farm in Sheridan, NY. John attended Sheridan’s one room school house and later graduated from Silver Creek High School in 1955. He graduated with a business degree from Bryant and Stratton in 1957. About that time he met Deborah Miller and they were wed in 1963. In 1968 he attended Gowanda State Hospital of Nursing, graduating as a Registered Nurse. John worked for 30 years at Gowanda State and J.N. Adam hospitals, various nursing homes and private duty for the Yellen and Nenno families. He has lived in Perrysburg, NY since 1978. John enjoyed a full life marked by his love for people, music and good food. He truly loved his work and the people he shared many cups of coffee with. It was evident by the way he lived that he truly loved and enjoyed people of all ages and backgrounds. He professed his Christian faith through his actions more so than his words. His shined the Light through his generosity toward others and support of faith- based organizations. He set an example as a provider modeling hard work, integrity and trust. John loved music of many genres. He played the accordion in a dance band in the 50s and later was the church organist for many years with his wife at the piano. If you had dinner at the Kenney’s, you probably enjoyed an impromptu concert in the music room. He loved to attend concerts and would drive for hours to attend a music festival. He had a fascination with sound production. He loved to set up his mics, speakers, soundboards and recording equipment for local church or concert events. He often would lend his equipment and expertise to churches in need. John loved all foods. He was an excellent cook, something he learned from his mother and various restaurant jobs from his youth. He loved to cook for company and large gatherings alike. Name a town and he could tell you the best restaurant in a 30 mile radius. He had a magnetic personality that drew people to him. He would often go out of his way to do something special for someone. He had a knack for knowing what made people smile whether it be the telling of good story, a plate full of yummy comfort food or simply welcoming them into his home. John was the only son of Paul C Kenney and Hazel B Kenney (nee Henry), and brother to sisters Marilyn Naslund, Mona Kenney and Nancy Murphy Kenney, all pre deceased. He leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Deborah Miller Kenney, daughter Rebekah (John) Tombaugh, son, John (Gina) Kenney Jr, along with grandchildren Mariah (Anthony) Jones-Nagel, Ashley Kenney and John Kenney III, and one great grandchild Isaiah Nagel. His extended family includes brother-in-laws Ken Naslund and Ron Murphy, nephew Keith Naslund and nieces Karin Miller Naslund, Heather Murphy Fleming and Cara Murphy. Friends and relatives may call at the Hole-Parker Funeral Chapel, 160 Central Ave. Silver Creek, NY on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at the Christ Chapel Wesleyan Church, 64 Buffalo St. Silver Creek. There will be additional visitation from 1 PM until the time of services at 2 PM. Pastor James Rugg will officiate. Interment will be private. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorial may be made to The Master’s Plan Community Church, 9586 Railroad St. Dayton, NY 14041. Please share condolences online at www.holeparkerfc.com. To send flowers to John's family, please visit our floral store.