Francis Michael Kennedy, known to friends and family as Mike, grew up in Dunkirk, NY, went to Saint Mary's School, graduated from Cardinal Mindszenty in 1968, and served 6 years in the US Navy. He was the eldest of thirteen children to Frank and Jacqueline Kennedy. His siblings Dan (Anne), Pat, (Linda)Thom, Kathy (Jerry), Bob (Nancy), Kevin, Sean, (Marylou) Mary Lou (Ron), Tim (Susan), Mark (Amy), Jackie (Ronnie), and John (Tracey), and 130+ nieces, nephews, and grands, left their marks on his heart.
He was married for 52 years to Lynn Travis Kennedy, and together they raised two daughters, Morgan [Lauren] and Sarah [James] in Westbury, NY. He cherished being Papa to his granddaughter, River.
A man of broad and varied interests, Mike had a lifelong passion for learning. He was committed to improving education in his community, notably serving as president of the Saint Bridget’s School Board, where he led a campaign to raise three million dollars to save the school. He was also a founding member of the Westbury Arts Council.
In his professional career, Mike was a pioneer in technology for major financial institutions like JP Morgan Chase, Citibank, Raytheon, and AIG, always at the cutting edge of innovation.
A talented guitarist, Mike loved music of all kinds, and had a special affection for his twelve-string guitar. During his Navy service, he even played in Parisian subways when funds were low, reflecting his resilience and spirit.
Above all, Mike was devoted to his family. He encouraged his daughters to be strong and independent, even training alongside them to achieve their black belts and traveling across the country for national competitions.
Mike's love of life included his many pets, the New York Yankees and, of course, the Bill's. He was committed to social justice and was loved and respected by the many friends he made wherever he went.
Ultimately, Mike gave the world the gift of knowledge by donating his brain to the NIH Brain Bank whose research is dedicated to the study of Alzheimer's and other neurodegerative diseases.
Francis Michael Kennedy leaves behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and courage. He had a profound impact on all who knew him. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
Donations in his memory can be made to the Sid Jacobson JCC Adult Day Program, which supports individuals suffering from all levels of dementia.
SID JACOBSON JCC
300 Forest Drive
East Hills, NY 11548
516.484.1545
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