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BORN
1927
DIED
2017
Michael McKenna Obituary
Mike, a retired English teacher, was born in New York City on April 23, 1927, the son of Irish immigrants. Raised in the Washington Heights neighborhood during the depression, he had endless stories of a colorful childhood in Manhattan.
Mike was a lover of many things - among them reading and writing poetry, James Joyce, Shakespeare, jazz, classical, flamenco and travelling the world and he spent his life passing this love on to his family and friends.
He is predeceased by his wife Dorothy "Rusty" McKenna, his son Mark McKenna, his daughter Maud Sugg, as well as his sister Rosemary Kelly and his brother Lawrence McKenna.
He is survived by his two daughters, Deirdre Wilson and her husband John of Pownal, VT, Amy Pearson and her husband Martin of Hoosick Falls, NY, four grandchildren, Zoe, Uel, Lydia and Patrick and two great-grandchildren Makena and Namalia. He is also survived by his sister Virginia Fernandez and numerous nephews and nieces.
Our father was a quiet, gentle and kind soul whose heart was huge and he touched many people who loved him dearly. He will be deeply missed. SERVICES: Services will be private.
If desired contributions can be made to his favorite radio station NPR @ npr.org
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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3 Entries
Moira Boyd
September 8, 2017
A uniquely superb man has passed. Mike was one of a kind, and an integral part of my early life. My condolences go out to Amy, Deirdre, and his grandchildren. Mike was one of the most humble, genuine, kindest people around as well as one of the last great whistlers. I will miss him. With kindness towards all that will miss him. Moira
Cynthia S.
January 9, 2017
I am very sorry for the loss your family has suffered. God can give all who lose loved ones comfort and turn our mourning into exultation, as promised at Jeremiah 31:13. I am sure you will continue to receive comfort and loving support during this difficult time.
Tracy Thompson
January 8, 2017
To Mike's Family, I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved father. I feel lucky to have met him again just this past June where he recounted stories of his travels as if they were just yesterday! With clarity and such details! He had such a great mind and he was really so pleasant to me- basically a long lost stranger from the past. Peace be with him and you Deirdre. With Love, Tracy Thompson
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