Michael 'Sally' Kennon
PILOT KNOB – Michael "Sally" Kennon passed away at St. Louis University Hospital January 11, 2021, after a lengthy illness. Mike was born in Bonne Terre, Missouri, April 7, 1950, the son of Carnell and Margaret (Mason) Kennon. He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Clayton; and his brother, Tom Kennon.
Mike is survived by his wife of forty years, Sherry (DuVall) Kennon; son, Daniel (Shieba) Kennon of Alabama; daughter, Teresa of Texas; and son, Alan (Lori) Kennon of Missouri; and three grandchildren.
Mike was retired from Asarcooe Run Company after thirty years of service where he was better known as Sally. He was a helicopter crew chiefachine gunner with the 135th Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam during the Tet offensive. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart, being shot down by enemy fire. He received the highest South Vietnam Award for bravery – The Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, Army Commendation Medal and Air Medal.
Mike was a free spirit who walked to the beat of his own drum. He loved horses, antique cars, wide open spaces, and Sherry. He will be greatly missed.
Funeral services will be held 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 13, from Bryson Funeral Home with Reverend Charles Smith officiating. Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. Interment will be in Jefferson Barrack's National Cemetery 12:30 p.m. Thursday, January 14, 2021.
