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Kevin Honness Obituary
45, of Fort Pierre, SD, formerly of Trumansburg, NY, lost his life in an accident on June 7, 2008. A celebration of his life will be held at Bethel Grove Bible Church, 1763 Slaterville Rd. (State Route 79), Ithaca, NY on Saturday, July 26, 2008, at 10 a.m. Kevin is the son of Pam and Howard Loveless of Trumansburg, NY and David and Deborah Honness of Newark, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Kevin M. Honness Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Trumansburg Central School District, Attn: Treasurer, 100 Whig St., Trumansburg, NY 14886. For additional information please contact Ness-Sibley Funeral Home at 1-888-534-5446.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kevin Honness
Tracy Ane Brooks
July 6, 2022
Some of the trees that Kevin planted when he was at Mission Wolf! They are beautiful and really make the front area look lush!
Cathy Mehlenbacher
July 23, 2009
WOW...I just found out about the passing of this very special classmate. Words cannot even begin to express past experiences or condolences for a light that has been dimmed so early in life. How wonderful that he lived his life to the fullest..
that was Kevin. It does not surprise me that he remained active and had a zest for life...that was Kevin. He has indeed left great memories with each and every person he came in contact with...that was Kevin. Perhaps his light has been dimmed however; it is only because of the distance between us and Kevin. I choose to believe that his light still shines bright in Heaven and that one day we will meet again. God Bless you Kevin! God's blessing upon family and loved ones, I know the hole that exists when someone so special has left our presence. God's Peace to all.
mark stewart
January 12, 2009
Just recently typed in Kevin's name into google and started looking at all of his pictures up online. I worked with Kevin out in south dakota for a short period and learned so much from him...what a great guy who inspired so many
Joseph Curran Jr
August 15, 2008
I just heard about Kevin. I went school with Kevin in T-burg. He was a good friend and always had a cheerful attitude and treated everyone equally. He will be missed.
Sheila
August 9, 2008
After hearing the passing of Kevin from another class mate of 1980, the first thing I remember as clear as it was yesterday, his constant smile. There was NEVER a moment that he wasnt smiling. He brought "life" to all whom he touched. This is clearly a tragedy but what an incredible legacy Kevin has left for all to reflect.
My sympathy to all of Kevin's families and friends.
Kristy Bly
August 1, 2008
Kevin was, and will forever remain, the love of my life.
Diane Winters
July 27, 2008
To Kevin's family,
Thank you for giving those of us who grew up with Kevin a chance to say good-by with you. I am proud to know that he became all of the man that his youth promised he could be. I did not meet the man, but would have liked him. I take comfort from the knowledge that his friendship has left it's own unique imprint on each of us. The part of me that comes from Kevin is alive and continues to shape who I become. He will not be forgotten.
Anita and Larry Clapp
July 23, 2008
To the Family of Kevin:
Since we have recently moved, we read the Ithaca Journal online and were saddened and shocked to read about the sudden loss of Kevin. As teachers, it is so difficult to read about the tragic loss of one of our students. Kevin was a wonderful person who accomplished so much in such a short life. We will always remember his warm smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
Gary Gibbs
July 23, 2008
Honness Family:
Kevin and I shared the soccer field for far too few summer league matches in NY and he played the game with passion, flare, and grace much like he approached life in general. I will cherish those memories for the rest of my days. Please accept my most sincere sympathy in his passing.
Julie Kreutzer
July 21, 2008
To all of Kevin's family and friends in New York and elsewhere: We had a beautiful memorial service for him at Mission:Wolf in Colorado. People flew in from other countries and states and drove in from all over Colorado to come. Around fifty of us climbed the hill where all of the wolves at our Refuge are buried and honored his memory with a special ceremony. There was a rainbow and a beautiful breeze as we looked out over the Sangre de Cristos mountains that he loved. Many of his friends spoke about his love for wolves, the wild and the people in his life.
For those of you who did not know, he volunteered with Mission:Wolf for many years. He is remembered here us as a strong and gentle man who was very good with the wolves and educated many visitors about them. We loved him dearly. We think he did more in his life than many people do who have lived twice as long.
There will be another memorial service for him at Yellowstone by his friends there. By my count, Kevin has been remembered by memorials in South Dakota, New York, Colorado and soon, Montana. Who among us has lived that large?
Kipp (Dannic) Scaglione
July 15, 2008
So sorry to hear of Kevin's passing. I went to school with him at T-Burg. Who could ever forget those eyes and great smile?! Can't believe all of the wonderful things he did in his short life. My sincere condolences to his friends and family.
Jyll (Harrington) Strothmann
July 15, 2008
When I recall our school years at Charles O. Dickerson High School in Trumansburg, I think of Kevin with very fond memories. Who could ever forget his drive and that smile!
After reading all about what Kevin has accomplished since graduation, he’s quite an inspiration to us all. My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. and Mrs. Loveless and the whole extended family. I’m very sorry for your loss during this very difficult time. Kevin was definitely taken away from us way too soon but what a legacy he left behind. Good-bye my friend.
Charles Schwartz
July 15, 2008
I was deeply saddened to learn of Kevin's accidental death. I remermber Kevin as afine young athlete, a lovingandcaring person and friend to all. Though out of touch, we will all remember himforallwe wasand isto us,.The peace of Christ be withbewith us
all. Coach ChuckSchwartz
Dawn Westbrook
July 14, 2008
Dear Howard and Pam: It is so difficult for us to grasp what you are feeling but we are comforted by knowing that you have a deep faith in the Lord and that He will give you the comfort you need. I am haunted by the fact that the last time I saw you (at the Windmill) was the day that Kevin died, but of course none of us knew what the end of that day would disclose. Ken and I will be unable to attend the memorial service as we have to be at our booths on Saturdays but we do want you to know that our love, thoughts and prayers are with you now and will continue to be with you in the future. Ken and Dawn Westbrook
Ed & Sharon Hunter
July 14, 2008
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
JACKI BROOKS
July 13, 2008
My Dear Pam and David and thier spouses,
Pam, I knew Kevin when you were carrying him and when he was just a youngster. My heart is with both of you as it's very hard for a parent to say goodbye to thier child, but remember the lord must have had something planned for him to do and he wanted Kevin in heaven with him. No one can say why things happen, but there is a reason that we'll never know. Kevin will still be with you altho you won't be able to see him, he'll be the dew on the morning grass, the fire fly who twinles at night, he will be the summer breeze, he'll be the gentle snowflake in the winter months. kevin will be the chirping of the birds that you hear in the morning, he will be the voice of the morning dove, he will be amongst the stars at night and his star will shine the brightest and the longest. Remember Kevin was a special child and no one can ever take his place.
From My Heart to Yours,
Cousin Jacki
Robert & Rose Stanton
July 13, 2008
Dave we are vary sorry to hear about your son. May god bless you in this time and we will praying for you.
Sandy Mley
July 12, 2008
I hope that Kevin's parents, as they endure their pain, also feel a deep sense of pride! They gave the world a man who made it a better place! May they draw some comfort from this knowledge.
Julie Loveless
July 7, 2008
I have no words. And it's fortunate, because the lump in my throat and my shortness of breath after reading these entries would paralyze any attempt at being profound or sentimental. Kevin was my hero. He was a kindred spirit. He was my inspiration and my rock. I missed him before he was gone and now the pain is unbearable. But reading this and witnessing his butterfly effect on the lives of others, across the country and throughout the decades, is just confounding. What an amazing spirit he was to have touched EVERY person he's ever met with the same potency with which he has touched me. I should only aspire to have that lasting affect on the people whose paths I cross. This man was bigger than Ghandi.
Doug Bennett
June 25, 2008
He was a great guy. i will miss him very much. we enjoyed our highschool years so much togeather !! he was a true friend who had a passion for sports and life.
Jeffrey Mason
June 25, 2008
Aunt Pam and Uncle Howard, I don't know where to begin in telling you just how sorry I am. As a kid I always looked up to Kevin and Chris and have talked of the wonderful things kevin has done in his life to anyone that would listen, even though it has been years since I have seen him he will be missed and you all are in my heart.
Jennifer (Moracco) DeCicco
June 18, 2008
Where does one begin?? I was utterly shocked and truly saddened to hear of your passing; however, also greatful to know that if it was your time, that it could happen while you were enjoying the outdoors which you loved, cherished, and respected so deeply. From the days of working at Taughannock Farms Inn together to the time you spent with my family...you always had such a kind, thoughtful and gentle soul. The way you touched my family's lives will never be forgotten...you are one certainly one in a million and I feel blessed to have been honored with your friendship. My deepest sympathies go out to your family and loved ones.
Kent Weber
June 16, 2008
Well Kevin - You have graduated- a bit too soon for all of us left here but at last you are free! You challenged all of us - in a growing way -to look at our choices and make each one better. Kevin arrived at M:W to help for a few days and never left. In '93 Kevin raised and named a wolf pup Rami, she died at the age of fifteen two weeks prior to Kevins death. I was never able to tell him his little girl passed but I bet they are back together now. The littlest wolf named Rami went on to be the biggest wolf ambassador we have ever know - her yellow eyes inspired over 250,00 people in thirty states and lived for 15 years. In '93 there were very few wilds wolves in the US - at their death wild wolves had returned to twelve states and were taken off the endangered species list! What a great gift you have offered to everyone. A feat that we thought(Kevin included) was impossible. What a joy it is to have known Kevin and been challenged by him to do better! My warmest thoughts and love go out to all of the friends and family at this time of loss. I will misss Kevin deeply. In celebration of his life and all he has done to help wild canines, Mission:Wolf is hosting a special event on Saturday, July 19th with lots of Kevins' famous recepies for "African geens", Grilled Seitan, Horseradish sauces..., all prepared by his many friends at M:W. You all are invited to attend and bring a dish in memory of one great individual.
Joe LoPinto
June 15, 2008
There aren't words sufficient to express the sorrow we all feel for you and yours. Our hearts are with you and prayers for Kevin, what a fine human being. Life is filled with pain and Kevin has climbed to a more peaceful summit. With all our love, the LoPinto Family
suzanne williams
June 14, 2008
Upon reading the tributes to Kevin, I'm crying, but I'm smiling. Sad as it is, how lucky we were to know him...
Cynthia (Ough) Cunningham
June 14, 2008
Too young, too soon.
Deepest condolences to the Honness & Loveless families.
Matt Scumboo Allen
June 13, 2008
My Dear Friend, you are the first of the Scumboos to depart our company. We will always celebrate your zest for life, and your can-do attitude. I aspire to live with the same effervescent zeal that drove you to climb mountains, literally and metaphorically. I have shed many tears this week knowing that it will be a long time before our paths cross again. I have had just as many laughs reminiscing about the parties, crashing Manos diner at 2:00 a.m., the proms, the dances, working at The Village Green House, Taughannock Farms Inn, attending Jazz concerts, playing soccer, and spending time in Boulder, CO. My life was a great life while you were a part of it; you have left some great foot prints. I, and the others, will miss you dearly.
Tim Mason
June 13, 2008
Although I had not heard from Kevin in almost 20 years, I am just so saddened to hear he is no longer among us, and to know that now it is too late to reconnect with him on this earth.
The memories of our countless antics, escapades and times together come flooding back from our years growing up in T-burg.
How did we ever grow so far apart?
Cherish your friends always, make the effort to keep them close, and let them know you Love them whenever you can.
Greg Mitchell
June 13, 2008
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to Kevins family for their loss. During my years at Trumansburg Kevin and myself were very good friends and his presence will be sorely missed.
Mario Saraceni
June 13, 2008
I read the news today oh boy......
i went to school with kevin and chris
two brothers who share a passion for life i dont speak of people that have died in the past tense their souls live on forever only this mortal body is finite all of my love and prayers go to the family and parents
my brother died in 1962 so i know the pain please call ANY TIME IF NEEDED I MEAN IT
my only son died 26 years ago and i can only imagine what you are going thru the last time i saw kevin was several ago he spotted me first and when i heard my name called the first thing i saw was his big 'ol smile that memory will be a lasting one
kevin thank you for being you
SEE YOU SOON
a poem to you
we have not lost a friend
heaven has gained an angel
a hero to man and wildlife together
he saw the world thru his eyes
not yours or mine
so next time you think of kevin
he has done his work here on earth
now his work begins in heaven
love mario 607-342-1568
Ella Graham-Rowe
June 13, 2008
I haven’t seen Kevin for around 11 years and yet my memories of him are as clear as if I had seen him yesterday. I met Kevin 14 years ago when I arrived at Mission:Wolf, alone from London. I knew no one and Kevin, Kent, Tracy and Tamas welcomed me in to their life and home. I have some of my happiest memories from the time I spent there, us all hanging out on the porch, chatting, debating, and having a laugh. I am deeply saddened to hear of Kevin’s death, he left such a strong impression on me and I feel truly honoured to have been his friend. He was a truly remarkable man. My thoughts are with all this family and friends at this sad time.
Suzy Moracco
June 12, 2008
To the Loveless and Honness families:
My heart felt sympathy goes out to you. Kevin was wonderful and a joy to everyone he touched.
Sincerely,
Suzy Moracco
Floyd (Skizz) Baldwin
June 12, 2008
To Kevin's family and friends: I was a classmate and friend of kevin's in school. He had a great light about him and he will be missed very much.
Tamas Christman
June 12, 2008
In memory of one of my dearest friends, whom was like a big brother to me. He shared so many wonderful insights, and adventures with me as I was growing up. He inspired me in so many ways and I will miss him dearly. I send my love and prayers to all who were touched by him in there lives.
David Burkleo
June 12, 2008
I have not seen Kevin since we went to school and church together so long ago. What an accomplished man he was! To the Loveless and Honness families, I extend my deepest sympathy. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Tokar Family
June 12, 2008
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Chet Brion
June 12, 2008
Our heartfelt sympathies go to the family. I know that losing a child presents the worst side of life and the loss of Kevin will be painful for a long time. Be sure, the memories of Kevin's life, friendship and his brilliant spirit will replace the sadness. He lives on..be sure..With All Our Love..The Brion Family..
Jeff Schwartz
June 12, 2008
My brother I Miss you dearly. Words can not express my gratitude for the multitude of lessons you shared with me. Kevin, You inspired me to live a life of simplicity and passion. My sincere condolences to all who knew and Loved Kevin Honness.... We shall never forget Kevin and his dedication to all that was truthful and beautiful. "Raadddd!!! Always "keep it wild!"
Love and Respect,
Jeff Schwartz, M:W BOD
Jim Walsh
June 11, 2008
My prayers and thoughts go out to Coach Loveless, Chris, and all of Kevin's family. As a wrestling teammate of Kevin in high school [Trumansburg, NY] I remember well and greatly admired his skill, dedication, and intelligence he brought to the tough sport. Apparently he carried those same traits to his accomplished but sadly shortened career. I again stand in admiration.
Mary Beth Frederick
June 11, 2008
Chris and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Chris, you and he sound very much alike in your pursuits of happiness in the great outdoors. He is now larger than life itself which it sounds like is certainly befitting of the life he led. You continue to hold a special place in our hearts for all the wonderful things you do for our children. You will remain in our fondest thoughts, even more so today...
Take care,
Love,
Mary Beth, Scott and Jake Frederick
Tracy Ane Brooks
June 11, 2008
To everyone who loved Kevin my heart goes out to all! Kevin was like a brother to me and not a day goes by I don't think of all the wonderful things he has brought to my life. A truly inspirational influence for so many people! You will be sorely missed my friend!
Keith le Grand
June 11, 2008
It is a small comfort to know Kevin was taken from us, while living life on a wild river, among the wilderness and the species he hoped to spare for generations to come after him. One of the best I have ever had the pleasure to interact with, Kevin will remain a Hero to me.
Vicki (Jakubowski) Girdis
June 11, 2008
I deeply saddened to hear this news about Kevin. I went to high school with him and even as a young man you could see his spirit and passion for life was far-reaching. How wonderful to hear he went on to accomplish such great things and that he followed his dreams and made this world a better place. My deepest condolences to his loved ones.
Cathy
June 11, 2008
To Kevin's family & Friends, Your'e all in my thoughts & prayers. I never had the honor to have met or known Kevin..But to have read about his accomplishments, Knowing in a quiet way he helped so many ,Knowing he was a a part of teaching , especially in such a beautiful place I have had the privledge to visit, look in awe over, South Dakota, Knowing he helped to preserve that area for me , my family & friends to enjoy ...It is overwelming, puts so much in perspective on what one person can accomplish . In honor of Kevin's life ,I will always remember him with our local and other place's wildlife, & the beauty of the land . Thank You ,all of you who helped this fine person give so much to so many. Your'e all in my thoughts always.
sandy miley
June 11, 2008
I was Kevin's tenth grade English teacher (and I loved the class of 1980). How very sorry I am to learn of his passing (and on my birthday). But what a wonderful life he led. My sincerest sympathy to his family
Julia Morehouse
June 11, 2008
Kevin - kind, loving, larger then life spirit. So many are so very fortunate that you touched our lives, and gave so much to connecting each of us to the world of the four legged ones. You will be missed, however, there is not a doubt in my mind that now the brightest star, and the light cast from the fullest moons will be you - just shining your light and saying hello. Continue your journey with love and light.
Pete Ditmars
June 11, 2008
How very sad that the world and his family loses a classy accomplished person like Kevin. He made a difference and the world will miss him. My deepest condolences to Kevin's loved ones.
Raven
June 11, 2008
Ah, my buddy. You have left your footprints in so many hearts.
Onna Meyer Barry
June 11, 2008
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your son.
Ed,Onna, and Bill Barry
Dick Deeb
June 11, 2008
David Honness & Pam Loveless,
We hadn't seen Kevin since he was a little boy and we were so inspired to see all he had become and all that he accomplished. Our heartfelt condolences to you both. Cousin Dick & Pat Deeb
Marcia (Potter) Horn
June 11, 2008
Forever we will keep you in our hearts. Forever we will "Reminisce" and keep your memory alive. Love never fades in the truest of friendships. ( I'll take care of the Scumboo's for you).
Sending love to the Honness and Lovelace family.
Debbie Honness
June 11, 2008
Kevin was an example of what each of us should strive to be. Each time I met and had contact with him, in person or via phone, he always encourged me to live life to the fullest. I will dearly miss him, but I can carry him in my heart forever. Aunt Debbie
Margaret DeSanto
June 11, 2008
Chris and Family, I am so sorry for your loss,
Margaret
Margaret DeSanto
June 11, 2008
Warm Summer Sun
Warm summer sun,
Shine kindly here,
Warm southern wind,
Blow softly here.
Green sod above,
Lie light, lie light.
Good night, dear heart,
Good night, good night.
By Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens)
The Poetry Foundation
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