James Richard Kennedy

1947 - 2024

James Richard Kennedy

October 20, 1947 - January 1, 2024

Fresno, California - Jim, a resident of Fresno, CA, died at the age of 76.

He was born in Spokane, WA and spent his early school years in Wilbur, WA, graduating from Wilbur High School in 1965. He went on to receive his bachelor's degree in business from Lewis & Clark College in Portland, OR

Jim lived in the Bay Area for several years and began a coffee distribution business. He relocated his business to Fresno, CA in the early 80's where he lived until his death. Being a very astute businessman with an outgoing personality, Jim grew his business to a good size within 5 years of relocating.

Jim was active and took part in the community. Upon retirement, he played for a baseball team, The City Senior Rec. that went on to participate in a regional tournament in Nevada. In the 2000's he tried out for the city's Senior Olympics.

Jim had a deep love of animals and spent a good deal of his time at the local dog park where he had many friends. Four legged and two legged.

Family and friends were very important to Jim. He cared deeply for the plight of the less fortunate and homeless, and often times would assist with food distribution and providing a warm, safe shelter during the cold months.

He was a very caring person, referred to by one friend as a "big teddy bear".

Jim will be truly missed.

A celebration of life will be planned for later in the year. A notice will be posted.

Jim is survived by his sister, Carol Anne Kennedy of Seattle, WA, his nephews Mike Bobbett of Snohomish, WA, Dave Bobbett of Battle Ground, WA and Chris Kennedy of Seattle, WA. His sister Lyndal survived him but passed away one week later.

Donations to any animal shelter or similar organization in Jim's name are greatly appreciated.