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Obituaries
11/04/09 Kennedy, Patrick J.
Patrick J. Kennedy, 66, of Skaneateles, died peacefully Wednesday Nov. 4, 2009 at Upstate Hospital with his family by his side. Patrick was born in Cobleskill, NY in 1943 and received his Bachelors degree from SUNY Oneonta in 1967. Early in his career, Patrick was a teacher and he remained a life long teacher to all who knew him.
Patrick’s strong spirit led him to become an entrepreneur and enter into business in the manufacturing/ modular home industry. One of his proudest professional accomplishments was putting in the housing for the athletes at the 1980 Olympic Games in Lake Placid.
Although, he was a gifted businessman, his proudest accomplishment was his family. He was the pillar of strength. Guided by his optimism and his “make it happen” attitude, Patrick taught everyone around him about thinking positively, not giving up, and about forgiveness. No more was that evident in the last 21 months as he recovered from a debilitating stroke. His strong determination, sense of humor, and competitive nature never allowed him to give up.
Patrick had many gifts. He had a unique way to connect to others and make everyone feel special. He was a loyal friend and a member of the Skaneateles Country Club where he was a competitive pitch player. He was a man about doing things: an avid outdoorsman, a gardener, a golfer, a sports lover…the SU sidelines are going to be a little quieter now.
Patrick is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Mary Rooney Kennedy, the “Queen” as he affectionately called her. Their love was an inspiration to everyone who knew them.
He is also survived by his children Cindy Payne (Garry) of Skaneateles, Kim Baldwin (Andrew) of Skaneateles, Scott Kennedy (Amie) of Tully, Kristin Mascola (Marc) of Saratoga Springs, and Melissa Kennedy Panto (Joe) of Boston. Grandchildren include: Matthew & Chloe Payne, Allie and Emily Baldwin, Zachary, Tyler, and Ian Kennedy, Marc, Madison, Mason, and Maggie Mascola & Noah Panto. He is also survived by his brother Russell of Florida. He is predeceased by his brother Paul.
Services: Saturday Nov. 7 at St. Francis Xavier Church, 1 West Main St., Marcellus, NY. Arrangements by: Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, 49 Jordan St. Skaneateles, NY.
Contributions may be made in Patrick’s memory to, Friends of Dave Pirro, Inc., P.O. Box 914, Skaneateles, NY 13152.
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