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Michael N. Kenter

Michael Kenter Obituary

Einan's Funeral Home
Michael N. Kenter passed away in his home on Friday, October 29, 2004, (his birthday), after battling cancer which was advanced at the time of his diagnosis last December.
'Milovan' Nikola Kenter was born to Stana and Nikola Kenter on the small island of Sveti Stefan, Montenegro (formerly Yugoslavia), in the Adriatic Sea on October 29, 1943. He was the youngest of seven children. His father was killed by a WWII-related gunshot wound when Michael was just 10 days old. His older brother, Vladimir, was very much a part of his upbringing as a young child. He graduated from high school with a medical technician's license. He enlisted in the Yugoslavian Army in which he was a medical sergeant. Michael graduated from the University of Belgrade in 1969 with a Bachelor's Degree in Safety Engineering.
Michael immigrated to the United States with a 'Visitor's Visa' in April of 1970. He met Anita Wright (Annette) on December 21, 1970, at the infamous Leucadian Bar and Restaurant, owned by his uncle, in the beach town of Leucadia, California. Michael and Anita were married four months later on April 21, 1971, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Serbian Orthodox Church. This marriage produced Melanie Kenter (Petross), born on November 18, 1972.
Mike was hired by Bechtel at the Navajo Generating Station in Paige, Arizona, on August 13, 1973. He began his Bechtel career in the Mines & Metals Division at the Pinto Valley Arizona project.
One of the proudest moments in Michael's life was becoming a naturalized citizen in 1977 in Reading, Pennsylvania, when he was working on the Limerick Nuclear Power Plant. Consequent to this event, his name was changed from 'Milovan' to Michael.
The Kenters were transferred to the Tri-Cities in March of 1985. Mike has worked on WNP2, BHI and the vitrification Plant. He has received numerous outstanding performance awards and had special interest in handling workers' compensation.
Michael is preceded in death by his father, Nikola Kenter; his mother, Stana Kenter; a brother, Alexander Kenter; a brother, Bosco Kenter; and a sister, Milica Kovacevic.
Left to mourn Michael's passing is his wife of 331Ú2 years, Annette; his daughter, Melanie Kenter Petross; a granddaughter, Alexandra Petross; a grandson, Misho Petross; a granddaughter Zoey Petross; a brother and sister-in-law, Vladimir and Kosara Kenter, a sister, Ljubica Bozinovska; a sister Radmilla Dosevska, a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jay and Grace Wright, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and a wealth of friends.
Michael desired that half of his remains be returned to Montenegro to the Kenter family vault at Savina Monastery, 1381, AD, situated on a picturesque hillside on the Adriatic Sea. A formal Serbian Orthodox burial ceremony will be held in Montengro for the family who are unable to attend the Cathedral of Joy ceremony here, being held on Friday, November 5th at 11 a.m. This ceremony will be closed casket. Michael may be viewed for closure and finality at Einan's Funeral Home on November 4th where Annette Kenter will greet between 6 and 8 p.m.
For Fact: 15/2, 15/4 is a count Mike loved. The Mariners always deserved the pennant and 'Texas No Hold' players are safer now.
Mike's grandchildren will be his eternal joy and thoughts of sailing eternal calm.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the American Cancer Society or the Tri-Cities Hospice Chaplaincy may be made.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tri-City Herald on Nov. 2, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Kenter

45 Entries

Carla Martin

May 13, 2005

Through your posterity your memory lives on. I'm fortunate to be able to continue to build a relationship with your beautiful wife, the love of your life. I'm also very lucky that your daughter continues to think of me as a second mother. In addition she and Eric have given us three beautiful grandchildren whom I know were priceless to you as well, to carry on your legacy.

Because of you my life has been truly blessed. I know the day will come when we will meet again.

Preston and Marie Dill

March 31, 2005

We are so sorry for your loss. We tried to comfort Mike in those final months, but he was always as much a comfort to us as we tried to comfort him. He was always strong when we spoke to him on the phone.

We enjoyed the times when we were together as family. Mike was a special person and we will remember him always.

Annette Kenter

December 23, 2004

Received from Eric's grandmother, from her sister, whose husband predeceased Mike by about a month.

He also fell victim to cancer.

"My First Christmas in Heaven"

I see the countless christmas trees around the world below,

with tiny lights, like Heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow.

Their sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tears,

For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs, that people hold so dear,

But the sounds of music can't compare, with the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring,

For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me; I see the pain inside your heart.

But I am not so far away, we really aren't far apart.

So be happy for me, dear ones, you know I hold you dear,

And I'm spending christmas with Jesuc Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above,

I sent you each a memory of my undying love.

After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold.

It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other as my father said to do,'For I can't count the blessings or love He has for each of you.

So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear,

Remember, I am spending christmas with jesus Christ this year.

- Author Unknown -

Jeff Broom

December 19, 2004

I always enjoyed knowing and working with Mike. He was a straight shooter of the first order, and he knew how to enjoy life. We will miss him.

Andrea Ensign (Pizzarella)

December 15, 2004

Anyone who has met Mike knows that he was an exceptional man with a passion for helping others. One of the most sincere people that I have ever met. I am honored and blessed to have had the opportunity to meet such a wonderful man. Mike and Annette have been a part of our family and will continue to be. He will always be loved and will be missed by all.

Eric Petross

December 14, 2004

Mike Kenter (Dad) was a great man. He was kind, generous, and loving. A wonderful father, grandfather and husband. He loved his wife very much. Anyone around the two of them would think Mom's name (Annette) was actually "Honey." He loved his Grandkids a ton and treasured time spent with them. He had a great competitive spirit! Anyone of his friends that played cards with him can confirm this fact, and he showed that toughness even in his last days when he said he was going to make it to his birthday. He did! I admire him, respect him, miss him and love him. Thank you for being a father, a grandfather and a positive influence in my life. Love, Eric

Moe and Shannon Davari

December 11, 2004

Anita and Family,

We were so saddened to hear of Mike's passing. Once we had moved away from the neighborhood, we would run into him at the grocery store and he always had a story to tell. He loved telling us about the grandchildren and what they had been up to. I remember how proud and excited you both were when they came along. You knew his life was full of meaning when he was with them.

It was always so nice to see Mike and Anita together. They enjoyed each others company and loved to show it!

We will miss those chance visits with Mike, but will be sure to visit you, Anita, more often.

Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

38 years, 12/1981

December 7, 2004

Conor Sheridan

December 6, 2004

I first met Mike in 1995 on a visit to Richland from the San Francisco Bechtel office. He made an immediate impression on me as a man of character, faith, and integrity. He never had a bad word to say of anyone and held his family in the highest regard. Though we only met a few times a year, I loved listening to the great Bechtel stories he had to tell from over 30 yrs. with the company. I will miss him greatly as a client and as a friend. I wish his family peace and consolation. God bless you all.

janelle harvey

December 4, 2004

I didn't have the pleasure to know Michael but I do know lovely Annette. We were discussing the loss of Michael and my mother who passed away in September. We were discussing how they both were avid card players and I shared with her my daughter's gift to her grandmother a few years ago. 3 Lessons My grandma taught me while playing cards.

1. Play the hand you are dealt as best you can.

What I learned. Fair opportunities do no come often so you must use what you have been given as if life has dealt you a royal flush.

2. Once you lay a card down on the table, it cannot be picked up again.

What I learned. Like spoken words or actions, once they have been released they cannot be retrieved. Be careful of what you say and do, for it leaves a lasting impression.

3. Win and loose gracefully, but never cheat.

What I learned. Be gracious and humble when right and even more so when wrong. A cheater loses the trust of the fellow players and will never be allowed back into the game.

Author, Kristi Wilkinson

Reading through all the other entries it sounds like Mike lived by these rules and I'm sure he's found mom and her friends at the big card room in heaven and having a grand time together.

Eventhough we miss them we will all be together again someday. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Annette.

Janelle Harvey and family

Tom and Pat Logan

December 2, 2004

Mike was a fellow worker and a great friend. He was an excellent safety professional and enjoyed mentoring others. I will miss Mike's straight up approach and valued friendship. Heaven will be a much safer place.

Annette Kenter

November 30, 2004

A Gift Left at the Kenter Home by an Anonymous Giftgiver.

(A Message from Michael):

To my dearest friends and family,

Some things I'd like to say,

But first of all to let you know,

That I arrived OK.

I'm writing this from heaven,

Where I dwell with God above,

There's no more tears or sadness,

There is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy,

Just because I'm out-of-sight,

Just remember that I'm with you,

Every morning, noon and night.

That day I had to leave you,

When my life on earth was through,

God picked me up and hugged me

And said, "I welcome you."

"It's good to have you back again,

You were missed while you were gone,

As for your dearest family,

They'll be here later on."

"I need you here so badly

As part of my big plan,

There's so much we have to do

to help our mortal man."

Then God gave me a list of things

He wished for me to do,

And foremost on that list of mine,

Is to watch and care for you.

And I will be beside you,

Every day and week and year,

and when you're sad I'm standing there,

To wipe away the tear.

When you lie in bed at night

The day's chore put aright,

God and I are closest then

In the middle of the night.

When you think of my time on earth,

And all those loving years,

Because you're only human,

You're bound to shed some tears.

So do not be afraid to cry,

It does relieve the pain,

Remember there would be no flowers,

Unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you

Of all that God has planned,

But there is so much to it,

You wouldn't understand.

One thing is for certain,

though my life on earth is o'er,

I'm closer to you now,

Than I ever was before.

And to my very many friends

Trust that God knows best.

I'm still not far from you,

I'm just beyond the crest.

There are rocky roads ahead of you

And many hills to climb,

But together we can do it,

Taking one day at a time.

It was always my philosophy

And I'd like it for you too,

That as you give unto the world,..

So the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody

Who is in sorrow or in pain,

Then you can say to God at night

My day was not in vain.

And I am now contented,

That my life was worthwhile,

Knowing as I passed along,

I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody

Who is down and feeling low,

Just lend a hand to pick him up

As on your way you go.

When you are walking down the street,

And you've got me on your mind,

I'm walking in your footsteps,

Only half a step behind.

When you feel the gentle breeze

Or the wind upon your face,

That's me giving you a hug,

Or just a soft embrace.

When it's time for you to go

From your body to be free,

Remember you're not g-o-i-n-g,

You're coming here to me.

And I will always love you,

From that land way up above.

We'll be in touch again soon,..

P.S.....God sends His love.

-Author Unknown-

Annette Kenter

November 30, 2004

The following was written for Mike by Carla J. Martin (Eric's Mom)

THE TRIBUTE

He stood like a sentry guarding her door,

Dark-haired and handsome, but Oh! so much more.

A proud father waits in that hospital hall,

He feels her pain as he hears his daughter call.

Respecting her privacy but wanting to be,

Close by her side, waiting to see,

Her first born child, but,.....HIS prosperity.

A priceless gift from God, and a new title,..."Papa! Papa!"--the words are so vital!

He feels his life is somehow complete,

With the love of his life, by his side so sweet.

He kisses his daughter and granddaughter's heads,

This is the best, "For Fact," he said.

57 yrs., 5/2000

November 29, 2004

Tony and Sandra Toubassi

November 28, 2004

Annette and Family,

We were truly sorry to learn of Mike's death. We have fond memories of Mike's charming personality and wonderful sense of humor. After being with Mike and Annette at several family functions in Texas, we learned to love and appreciate their friendship. We especially remember the sweet way in which he called Annette "HONEY" in his Yugoslavian accent. Mike was a very caring and loving husband, father and grandfather and he will be missed by his immediate and extended family.

May God put his loving arms around his family.

Darlene & Mike McClure

November 23, 2004

Mike was an extremely special person. He was my mentor at work and Mike's and my true friend. We will forever miss his "My Friend" phrase when greeting either of us. Mike's charm and personality will never be replaced as there can only be one "Mike Kenter". We were all blessed to have known him.

Joseph & Linda Pizzarella

November 21, 2004

A person acquires a number of acquaintances during a life time. A few of those acquaintances are thought of as friends. The designation of friend is only given to those that are thought of as family. The designation of family is given to the ones we love. Mike, you are a true friend and family, we love you. Some day us friends will get together again.

Mike & Diane Hood

November 19, 2004

There are not enough good words to say about Michael Kenter . He was one of our closest fiends, always willing to do whatever you needed him for. He was a man of highest honor and integrity. He was the best mentor and advisor a person could have. He always spoke about and loved his family dearly. He was fun loving and liked to have a good time with the guys on a Friday night playing poker or shooting pool.HE WAS THE BEST case manager the Bechtel Corp. ever had. Everyone knew Michael to be a Great Guy and he will truly missed by many. We will always love him and remember him. Mike and Diane Hood

Bobby O'Neal

November 18, 2004

Mike took me under his wing and taught me the ins and outs of being a "Safety Man". That was over 20 years ago. We have stayed in touch off and on over the years and I will always think of him as my friend and mentor. I will miss him greatly

Bobby

Jerry Calvey

November 18, 2004

I first met Mike at a mutual friend's home on St.Patrick's Day, 2003. That day, Mike assured me, he too was Irish!! We enjoyed corned beef and cabbage, and he stated that the cabbage was "just like his Mother made...". Mike was a great humanitarian. We'll all miss him.

Brad and Merrie Schilperoort

November 17, 2004

Dear Annette and Family,

We all miss Mike but know that he is with us in our hearts. May you be comforted with the thoughts and prayers of your vast circle of friends.

Roger Engasser

November 17, 2004

Deepest sympathy,Mike will be missed by many,

Bob Mazza

November 17, 2004

I first met Mike at wnp2 for an outage that started the end of march of 1992, I was only in Richmond for about four months, but I left there with a life long friend. We did'nt keep in touch very much, but I will never forget Mike's friendliness.

Bob Mazza

Dave Allen

November 17, 2004

I remember Mike best as always having kind words and a friendly smile. I will miss Mike. To his family “Find strength in one another, in family.”

William Tadlock

November 17, 2004

I truely enjoyed the times Mike and I spent working together. He was a true family man. I learned a great deal about our profession while working for Mike. I send my blessings to all his family and friends.

Tom Rountree

November 16, 2004

Unfortunately I didn’t get to work with Mike very much at the WTP. But those few times we worked together were great. When I would come out to the job site for meetings, Mike would always ask me how I was and invite me into his office to talk. I will miss Mike very much. My best wishes go out to the family and friends.

Brad Marshall

November 16, 2004

Michael will always live in our hearts as a caring man, who was eager to help and encourage. I worked with him on three jobs over the years, and mourn his passing. May God bless and comfort those who are left behind.

Allen Macenski

November 16, 2004

To Mike's close friends and family- I'm saddened to learn of Mike's passing. Having had the pleasure and honor to be his friend is beyond discription. I will miss Mike for his hearty laugh, quick wit, and giving personality. Annette, God bless you in your sorrow. The next time I'm in the Tri-cities, I'll give you a call.

Tash Baksh

November 16, 2004

I met Mike in 2002, he was a very honorable person, who truly lived up to his word. He is greatly missed.

Joe Auyer

November 16, 2004

Michael,

It was a pleasure knowing you and working with you on the WTP Project. I wish we could share another Cuban cigar together. You are truly missed in my heart but I know that you are in a better place. Susan also sends you her love.

Joe Auyer

ES&H

Kwajalein Island

Republic of Marshall Islands

Bobby Oliver

November 16, 2004

Mike will always be one of my most unforgettable characters. From the time I met him in 1994, through the trips I made to Hanford over the years since, I have often thought about Mike. He had such a way with people - engaging and vibrant, with a twinkle in his eyes as he told a story that would make you laugh. I also learned from Mike some valuable lessons about work and life. Mike, it was a pleasure. I will miss you, my friend.

Sheldon Coleman

November 16, 2004

I got to know Mike by playing cards with him during our lunch breaks when he worked for the Environmental Waste Contractor. Mike loved to play cards and he was the toughest opponent I have ever faced. He often talked about the differences between America and the "Old Country". I could tell that he really enjoyed his vists with his older brother. He always talked about how great a business man and how good a brother he was. I will very much miss having another game with Mike--more for his great stories than for the opportunity to beat him (which were very few)! I know Mike would want his friends and family to remember him but not to be destroyed by his absence. I will always think of him as a real winner!

Arnold Ferguson

November 16, 2004

I worked with Mike for about 8 years on the Environmental Restoration Project in Richland. He was friendly and loved to talk, but he was a wizard when he played cribbage. His office was used for cribbage every day during lunch. Mike was very knowledgeable of the various aspects of Safety and was indispensable when it came to determining Workman's Compensation. I also recall discussing his homeland. He was extremely proud of Montenegro as well as his adopted country. I will miss him.

Carolyn Poff

November 16, 2004

Mike was a great person and an inspiration to everyone who knew him. Mike would not want anyone to be saddened by his passing. He would want you to live in his memory. He will be greatly missed but, will stay in our hearts forever. May God bless all his family and friends.

Gene and Charlotte Schneebeck

November 15, 2004

Annette and Family,

We will miss Mike's smiling, friendly face and warm hand shake. We could not ask for better neighbors than Mike and Annette. Gene will miss his talks with Mike and his cheerful greetings whenever we happened to see each other outside. We would like Mike's Yogoslav family to know that Mike was loved, admired, and respected and will be greatly missed. We would also like both Mike's family and Annette's family to know that we are close by and ready and willing to help Annette in whatever manner would be supporting and helpful to her. We continue to value your friendship.

We send our heartfelt sympathy and condolences.

Love,

Gene and Charlotte Schneebeck

Kevin Berg

November 15, 2004

Anytime a group of people share a common bond, whether it be by work, similar interest, or passion or family, there are always those "characters" who stand out in the minds of all. For me, Mike is one of those never-to-be-forgotten characters, the mere thought of whom brings a smile to my face. There are few people who have touched my life that have had more color, more zest, more passion .... no, COMPASSION then Mike Kenter. I will miss our talks. I will miss your stories. I will miss you. Travel well my friend.

Renea Metzger

November 15, 2004

To Mike's family:

I met Mike Kenter at the WTP-RPP project in Richland Washington. As a new employee he was very kind to me and introduced me to several other employees. Whenever he would go outside to smoke he always included me. We used to tease him because there were always several women outside with him, we told him he was a "babe magnet". Mike always had a story, and most of them were very interesting. I feel touched to have know such a wonderful man. He will always be in my heart, and missed by each of us! May God Bless you!

Clark Torell

November 14, 2004

I first met Mike on a Bechtel project that we built on St. Croix, USVI. Mike was a true safety professional, and was an invaluable asset to the success of the project. Because we were new to the island and didn't know any local people, the Bechtel people did a lot of socializing after work hours. Mike was always willing to participate and contribute. He was the Bechtel Ping Pong champion, arguably the best cribbage player, and I say this lovingly, not one of the best sailors of the group. I vividly remember one day Mike and Anita were out on their 14' Hobie Cat and, due to no wind, were stalled outside the reef downwind of the cut-thru in the reef. It was getting late and we had to call the coast guard to rescue them. Needless to say, he took a lot of kidding about this the next week at work. Mike- I will miss you.

David Crockett

November 12, 2004

Mike and I worked together for the first time in 1992 and soon became good friends. On business trips such as the ASSE Conventions, Mike, Anita, my wife Barbara, and I would usually get together to see the sights. Mike has always been a perfect gentleman and he loved his wife and family. Mike's passing has been a loss to all of us that knew him but we have been blessed by knowing him.

Roxie West

November 3, 2004

I was lucky enough to have Anita become a cousin at an early age. We met Mike shortly after they were married at Anita's Mom and Dad's in CO. We had a wonderful time getting to know him, and a lot of fun as well!! Mike's european flair for life was great !! Rest well Mike, you have earned it, and we will all see you soon !! We wish we could be there to give you a hug and a shoulder ,Anita, the kids too! lots of love... Jim, Rocky and family

Gerry & Terri Palm

November 3, 2004

Mike came into Terri and my life in 1992 at a construction site in Morton Washington. I was a new Bechtel employee working for the first time in the USA from Canada. From that day forward Mike was always willing and ready to provide guidance to me in our journey to send our fellow wokers home safe to there familys each day. Mike cared very much for people and his family. Mike will be missed very much by us. I know that heaven will be a better place with Mike there. Sincerly Gerry & Terri Palm

Tom and Pat Peterson

November 3, 2004

Annette and family,

We are so very sorry to hear of Mike's passing. We know that he is at peace, but our hearts ache for his friends and family who will miss him so very much. Mike was a wonderful guy with a heart of gold.

May you feel the warmth of the Lord's arms around you all.

Love,

Barbara Murphy

November 3, 2004

My Murphy, I'm sure was waiting at the Gates of Heaven to welcome his buddy, Mike. I hope that Annette will take comfort in knowing that they are together. Mike Kenter was one of the most decent individuals that I've had the pleasure to know.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Love, Barb

Edna Floyd

November 2, 2004

I was so sorry to read about the death of Mr. Michael Kenter. May the words of our Lord Jesus found at John 5:28-29 bring comfort to those she leaves behind.

Deepest sympathy,

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