Photo courtesy of Curran-Jones Funeral Home - West Springfield
West Springfield, Massachusetts
Apr 28, 1947 – Aug 3, 2025
Daniel J. Kennedy Sr., 78, passed away Sun August 3, 2025. He was born on April 28, 1947 to the late Thomas and Anna (Mari) Kennedy. Dan proudly served as a Massachusetts State Trooper for over 38 years in Troop B, primarily stationed in Russell. He retired in 2010. Among his many roles, Dan was especially proud of founding the Domestic Violence Task Force in the Hilltowns. He also served as the Union Representative for Troop B in the State Police Association of Massachusetts and as Secretary on the National Trooper Coalition Board. Prior to joining the State Police, Dan worked as a Sky Marshall in California. Dan had a passion for antique cars, NASCAR, and even raced at Riverside Speedway in his younger years. He also dedicated time to coaching CYO Basketball and Pioneer Valley Soccer in West Springfield. Known for his dry wit and great sense of humor, Dan brought joy to everyone around him. Of all his interests, nothing brought him more happiness than being a grandfather. He cherished attending his grandchildren’s activities and sporting events, and they will fondly remember his playful spirit, spontaneous Chick-fil-A outings, and infectious laughter. Dan leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Kathleen (Foley) Kennedy; his children: Kate Reed (Dave), Amy Smith (Aaron), Sara Grabowski (Steve), and Daniel “DJ” Kennedy (Kim); and his beloved grandchildren: Morgan, Griffin, Mackenzie, Sydney, Rory, Jack, Nora, Makenna, Keagen, and Brynn. He is also survived by his brother Thomas Kennedy (Kathy), along with several nieces and nephews. Family and Friends are welcome to meet FRIDAY 11 AM for A Liturgy of Christian Burial in Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut St., Spfld. Burial will follow in St. Thomas Cemetery in West Springfield. Calling Hours will be held THURS from 4 to 7 PM at the CURRAN-JONES FUNERAL HOME, 109 MAIN ST., W. SPFLD. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Dan’s name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or to Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut St., Spfld, MA 01104
Read MoreI am so lucky to have had Dan as my Sergeant on midnights at B-5. He was a great resource and so smart. His genuineness and attention to help mold young Troopers (like me) helped forge many successful careers. After retirement it was always a great joy to see Dan and catch up with him at Troopers´ Picnics. His dry wit and that sparkle in his eye never dulled. Rest in peace, Dan. Thank you for being such a great role model.
Timothy Whelan
August 12, 2025 | Work
I met Dan several years ago at an NTC Picnic. I met him through Johnny Hughes. Both Johnny and I are retired Maryland State Troopers. I lived in Springfield years ago and knew his neighbor Frank Capuano. Nice man. Sending prayers and condolences to Franks family and the MSP family as well. Rest easy Trooper you will be missed.
Joseph Jenkins
August 12, 2025
Sending our sincere condolences to your family. Marie and Jack Susen
Marie Susen
August 08, 2025 | Other
Kathy and family, so sorry to hear of Dan's passing. May your memories bring you comfort.
Pat Tierney
August 08, 2025
TPK , Kathy, and family, very sorry to hear about Dan. As a friend, another car guy, a State Trooper, and probably everything else he did, he was at the top of his game always. Will miss him, and deepest sympathy.
Vinnie Fusaro
August 07, 2025 | Friend
Dear Kathy and family; So sorry to hear about Dan's passing. As your neighbor down the street, we always felt so safe with the state trooper vehicle sitting in your driveway,. May he rest in peace, and sending thoughts and prayers with Love. Sue and Jim Rabbitt
Susan Rabbitt
August 07, 2025 | Friend
Sending sincere condolences to the Kennedy family, and friends & colleagues of "Mr Kennedy". The outpouring of love & support you'll receive in the coming days is telling of the man your father was.
Trish (Ginnetti) Poulin
August 06, 2025 | RI
My deepest condolence´s to the family. I worked with Sgt Kennedy, he was a true professional, always willing to help anyone. Sgt Kennedy was there for me when I lost my brother and I´ll never forget his support at that time.
Maura Schiavina
August 06, 2025
Dan, we go way back too Sacred Heart,Emily Bill Park and beyond ! Rest in Peace old friend !
John W. Hogan ED.D. Riverside , Illnois, Palm Springs Ca.
August 06, 2025 | Friend
