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John "Jack" Kennelly
John "Jack" Kennelly
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John Kennelly Obituary
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Crystal Krist and John Hilla
February 23, 2005
It has been 3 years since you left us and we are finally getting married in May. I guess we have been putting it off because you aren't around to see it and finances aren't there either. We think about you all the time. Little things remind us of you. We just pulled out the book we made with all your pictures and writings that everyone has written. We just can't believe that you aren't in Miami any more watching and feeding your birds. Well I guess you are doing it in a better place. Love you and miss you lots. Also John says if you can, stop the birds from going on his car. HaHa!
John Hilla
June 29, 2004
Grandpa,
I can't belive how long it's been, more importantly I can't belive you missed the oppurtunity to participate with me and Crystal getting married this December. Sorry to say, but things here on Earth are getting very bad. The war has been causing much heartache with all the deaths of our soliders, good news is David is out of harms way. I guess the reason I'm writing is because of an incident that occured yesturday or so in my car.. Was listening to a cd from PETRA "No Doubt". Mom claims it was played at your funneral.. I didn't want to argue, but suppose that was blocked from my memory.. I dunno why, but i felt it was important that i said I miss you and know that your doing better than all of us together. Until the grand reunion, thanks for the memories.
Love, your grandson.. John
Susan Hilla
June 14, 2003
Dear Daddy, I tried to forget tomorrow was Father's Day --but no chance. I kept pushing it back in my mnd. I miss you too much! I have so many regrets of things left undone, of things unsaid...but most of all, things you won't be here to see... the weddings that will come, the grandkids I hope to hold someday...but when I think of what you get to have in heaven with my feeble brain- I know it doesn't compare. I remember some of the gifts we girls gave you for Father's day...the Farrah Faucette t-shirt, mugs, you name it...I was cleaning up Larry's room and came across the Beer can Bikini...I need to send half to Diana unless I already did? I guess I'll have to open it and check... David wrote and says he wants to be a missionary...WOW! He sent a paprachute today-some souvenir,Iraq flag, head dress/cord,money, etc. I'm curious what will see when we develop his film.......
Daddy, I miss being someone's daughter. One who knows me- who loves me anyway...but in a sense I have that "knowing" even more with Larry. We've been together almost as long. I'm glad you got to know Larry -he's a great guy and I'm proud to be his wife!
Before I forget --Ask Jesus to send some warrior angels on David's behalf-OK?
I guess that's it daddy. I didn't even proof this cuz you know my heart and what I'm really trying to say.
HAPPY DAD'S DAY ----hope to see you soon. Yes, I mean that...As much as I love everyone here there are days that I'd rather be there with all this life behind and the new one with Jesus started. I think its days like b'days/parent days, etc...it hurts too much...I'm tired of hurting/ of missing you guys and Christy and all the others. But, seeing how I'm still here, I guess my jobs not done yet...so I better get to it.
Love SUSAN AKA Stretch
Crystal and John
June 4, 2003
John and I were just sitting here looking at his website and I saw the link for Jack and decided to see if anyone else has written. We are a couple days away from father's day and I know he wasn't my father or for that matter grandfather, but he always treated me like I was. It's about 12:20am and I just felt like writing to wish him a happy father's day. Um... what should I send him? John says what is the postage for heaven? I hope I have enough money!Also I guess I'm a little worried. On friday I'll be having my tonsils taken out, and yes I know there hasn't been any deaths but there could always be a first and I don't want to be that. I'd love to see you again but not like that. I want to be married and have children and get old with John first. I know God takes us on His own time but I don't want that to be friday. I have so much to do in my life. Well all that's left to say is we love you and miss you. John wants you to know he has moved, we know you know where he lives. Also he reminds you to be quite the girls next door may wake up. You know the ones, you are watching them, I know it!!
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Crystal Krist
February 19, 2003
It has been a year since you left us. I still can't believe you are not here. There is so much I want to write down but don't want to b/c I don't want it to sound dumb. I know you know what I want to say. I thought of you as my own grandpa b/c I didn't have one. I miss coming to see you. You aren't going to be there for John and I's wedding, that was really the only thing I wanted. I told John many times maybe we should do it early and that's when we said next time we are down there with him lets just get married so he can see it. We weren't going to tell anyone about it, but then we weren't ready for that, so we kept pushing it back. Now it is set to be around 2004. I know you will be there with us. I miss you so much and can't wait to see you again.
Diana
December 31, 2002
It's Diana again. I received a wonderful suggestion about what to do in honor of Dad's memmory. Susan R suggested we buy dad star.
Whatdayathink?
Yeah sis I miss him too! I'm glad you are surrounded by your wonderful, caring and supportive husband and children.
Hugs,
Diana
Susan Hilla
December 30, 2002
Dear Daddy,
I was shocked to see that there were new entries in your guest book. Somewhere down the line, I thought they said nothing more could be added.
John was right, I'm not doing so well or at least I wasn't. The things he said gripped my heart; my son has a poet's soul. Yes, daddy I miss you terribly but having a tantrum wasn't helping either... instead I was dishonoring your memory and the Lord's Birthday.
I know that it takes about a year to process through grief and that its acceptable to still hurt...what is not acceptable is destroying Christmas for others by refusing to participate, which was what I was doing.
Fortunately the Lord spoke to my heart these very truths and gently added,"Honor Me by giving others Christmas" so and that's what I did. I'm not able to spell check or even view this the way its on my screen so hopefully this makes sense...I know I feel better putting it in print.
Daddy, we haven't been back to check on your place since last summer. Diana has been carrying the full load. You raised an awesomw kid there dad! She is a person of rare beauty of body, mind, and soul.
thanx.
Daddy I miss you and mom, I wonder sometimes what you think of certain decisions I make, and find myself asking 'what would dad or mom think?' and that helps. But in no way does it make up for you two being gone!
As much as I wish you were here to see our lives unfold...Larry graduating, LARRY, kAREN, AND I--acting/directing plays, I am glad you are out of pain and disease free...I just miss you so much!
I am on lunch and have to get back to work so I guess I'll close for now.
Love you, Daddy!
"stretch"
John Hilla
December 28, 2002
Hi Grandpa,
I'm sure you and grandma observed our Christmas this year. The non- traditional approached. Mom decided to wrap up all the items in our christmas stockings and give them as gifts. And we all took a vote and skipped breakfast and just ate Hot Coco & Slim Jims. David was not able to come home for Christmas as the Army is holding him on base via Italy. According to him, he will be shipped out in January to Kosovo. Right about now I would be making my yearly trip to visit and spend time with you in Miami. It's not been easy around the holidays, just the other day mom and dad were watching a program on Abc Family. I dunno what the movie was entirely, but the Santa Clause looked identical to you. Mom got very emotional and dad hugged her to help her through it. I can understand how that would effect her, after all you were the most kind and gentle person we all came to know and love throughout our lives. Well there are only a few days left and then it's time to start the new year. I can only think of one resolution, and that is to continue to remember and try to live on the legacy.
Love your grandson,
John
Diana Kennelly
December 11, 2002
Oh boy do I miss you. It is Christmas time. I was looking for an e-mail and I stumbled across your's dad. Well we all miss him don't we? We need to do something this Christmas in honor of Dad.
Any suggestions from the gang?
Miss Him and Love Him,
Diana
John Hilla
August 1, 2002
Where does one begin.. I miss you very much. I purchased a dvd called "A walk to remember" it's premis is about dying of the disese Leukemia. I recently lost a friend to the disease from work, we lost you because of a misdiagnosis, and grandma bird to colon cancer. It's not fair. Times are getting touch, but without these trials there would be no room for growing up. If anything it's made me think twice of how I live life. For instance why be bitter and angry over stupid stuff. When it comes down to it, time is very short and precious. Every minute we have to breathe or speak is a gift. I'm finding myself re-evaluating life in many different angles. I learned so much from you, the stories of growing up and learning the different things in life will, in short was a small blessing. Today is Dad's birthday, I'm not sure what to get him just yet. But I'm thinking a good dvd that covers his interest such as (airplanes and fighter jets). I can only hope that I can live up to your expectations and grow up to be like you. Kind to the heart to all that you know and gentle to the soul to those you get near. Your Legacy will live on forever. I'll be seeing you soon.
Love,
John
ps. If you come by for a visit, please keep the tv low, since I like to get some rest before work the next day.
Crystal Krist
March 31, 2002
I know I've already written but there is a quote I wanted everyone to see.
Goodbye's the saddest word we'll ever hear. Goodbye's the last time we'll hold you near. Someday you'll say that word and we will cry. It'll will break our hearts to hear you say goodbye. Till we meet again until then goodbye.
Larry Hilla
March 19, 2002
JACK KENNELLY,
Remembered as:
Joker, Humorist, Comedian
Playful father & Grandfather
Sympathetic friend
Optomist
Proud American
Masterful Photographer
Skilled Driver
Navy Veteran
Accomplished Locksmith/Engraver
Jazz Band member
Internet "information" provider
LOVED:
Family
Friends
Roses
Kids of all ages
Animals
Jazz
Mountains
Photography
Boats
Dogs and Cats
Purty Boy (his bird)
Clydsedale Budweiser Horses
Web TV
Gave:
Encouragement
Wise Counsel
Quality Time
Hysterical Jokes
Delicious recipies
Awesome Pictures
Prayer support-- through "The Man Upstairs"
Dad, You are remembered and treasured and missed.
Love,
Larry (Your Son-in-law)
Susan Hilla
March 19, 2002
Dear Daddy,
I haven't written until today because I didn't want to admit you were really gone. You'd think having your ashes accidently delivered to me at work would have clued me in. I'll bet you thought that waas a hoot! But it's far easier to pretend you're still in Miami sitting in your favorite chair waving at all the passers-by...Hmmm, I wonder if that's your new job in heaven? Do you get to greet all the new arrivals and make them feel welcome? You'd be great at that--in between visiting with Christy, your grand-daughter, my mom, Vonnie and all the assorted aunts and uncles and other relatives! What a reunion that must have been! But best of all, you got to meet Face to Face with, as you always said, "The Man Upstairs", your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!
Daddy, as much as I wish you were still here because it hurts so much without you--I'm also thrilled that all your pain is GONE! You can breathe celestial air without hindrances! AWESOME!!!!
Not to mention, NO MORE DIETS. I don't know if they have milkshakes in heaven but if they do-have some for me!
Seriously Daddy, I know you are up there. Judi told me of how you witnessed and encouraged her when Tiffani died, your act of kindness to her gives me perfect peace that you are with the Lord waiting for the rest of us who have a relationship with Jesus. Hey, in light of recent worldly events, Jesus could come back anyday-- So, save me a place by you in the clouds. I can't wait to see you again!
Oh, I almost forgot to ask you, do they have a jazz band so you can play your saxophone or did you have to learn to play the harp? Also, are you on the ANGEL'S Bowling league making thunder by getting strikes? I guess I won't get the answer to these or any other questions until I see you face to face.
Just to let you know, we are coping and going on with our lives so don't worry about us--We'll be okay.
Thanks again for being an awesome daddy and adopting me into your life and love.
Your Daughter,
"STRETCH" AKA Susie
Karen Hilla
March 19, 2002
Grandpa was and is the best! I can remember sitting on his lap, pulling a black comb out of his pocket, and combing his hair straight up. It was my goal to have it as wildly looking as I could get it! What a Grandpa! He didn't care that I was messing up his hair. Instead he smiled big and laughed with me. I also remember Grandpa's generosity-He freely gave to everyone!!!! He added to my favorite collection-BARBIES!! every holiday and b-day. I can't just use a page or a hundred pages to describe my grandpa. I just know that he was a great man and he truly cared for everyone he encountered. I feel sad for the world because no one can ever replace him. He was wise ,HILARIOUS!,compassionate,and an Awesome grandpa. I'm so glad I that I got to be his "rotten granddaughter!" (That was a joke between us-whenever we'd go in a store he'd yell "Watch out for sticky-fingers!" or "Keep your eye on this one!" He did this just for fun.) Grandpa I love you and can't wait to see you. You were the best...I love you soooo much and miss you terribly. I will love you always and think of you always! Thankyou for being so loving to me, our family,and everyone. I'm so glad that you're finally out of pain and that you're having a BLAST in heaven! I love you - I can't say that enough!!!!!
Love always and forever,
Your rotten granddaughter,
KK
DAVID HILLA
March 13, 2002
I sit here lost... not knowing what exactly to type. But what I said at the Wake, is what I want to re-state: Yes, Jack was my Grandfather, and he was also friend.
I could tell things to grandpa that I could never tell Mom and Dad. And he always pointed out possibilities to me that I had overlooked that helped me make my decision in he matter. Thanks to the help of G-PA and G-MA, the way we kids, now s, were raised and the awesome love that was shown to us and our MANY friends...we are now able to live the lives that Grandpa would be ecstatic about to have pictures of.
Now he has the BEST camera equiptment that GOD can make, the BEST view of the mountains or woman he wants, and the love that he has shown all of us that only GOD can give.
Grandpa...I am jealous, but when I am in the air, with a full chute and a smile...you know why.
Jack Kennelly: he loved, was loved by all, and is now immersed in the only love that beats the love of our family...GOD.
SGT HILLA, DAVID T.
CMR 427 BOX 783
VICENZA, IT
APO AE 09630
PHONE: (011)-(039)-(340)-810-3964
Christine McIntyre
March 8, 2002
Its hard to explain how much anyone you love means to you. Jack is no different for me. I grew up around Diana and her family just adopted us as part of their own. To me Jack was just a part of my family that would always be there it seemed. I am extreamly grateful to have been part of his life and his love. It was like being at grandpas house! He makes you laugh a lot and it inspired you on how much zest for life he always had!! My last email I got from him, I received after his death, and ii read "Happy Valentines Day". Well, Happy Valentines Day to you too Jack, I love you!
Christine :)
Brenda Colvin
March 7, 2002
I have never had the honor of meeting Jack in person, but we kept in touch almost daily by email, and I had the opportunity to talk with him in person over the phone. He was always so sweet and kind, and immediately took me under his wing as another "adopted daughter" as soon as I found my birth family, and my sisters, Susie and Diana.
Jack's sense of humor was so delightful, and I always looked forward to his little jokes and comments that he would send me. He also went out of his way to send me inspirational and uplifting messages that caught my heart and blessed my spirit...Jack I will miss you! I am sure you are dancing with Vonnie and friends, and looking forward to seeing all your family once again someday. I pray that your family here can find comfort and kindness as they review their memories of your wonderful loving friendships and fatherhood. You will be sincerely missed dear Jack!
John Hilla
March 2, 2002
As the oldest grandson, I have had the privillage of being to many places with him. One of my fondest trips was to the Florida Keys. This was during a time when I ventured into learning about still photography. I belive it was a proud moment for him, to see that I wanted to be just like him. But no matter how much we try, I don't think anyone could ever be that much compassionate about everything and everyone. I'm tickled to know that he wanted to spend so much time with us, it was always very hard to say goodbye at the end of the trip. Sometimes, I just look up at the sky at night and just want to ask "How is grandma and Christy doing?" As if waiting for reply; lost in the stars reality hits. He is doing fine and enjoying every minute. He awaits us all to join him soon, he belive he's got dibs on the remote and keeping all the cats cozy be the fire. Well until that moment comes, I'll await my turn and continue to live.
I'll miss you, but I'll remember you forever and ever.
Loving from across the atmosphere, past the clouds and through North America, Make a right to Florida, keep turning till you see Mickey, slow down - backup there you found me home, past my parents house; down the street for about 4 blocks I'm on the right across the bank. Look to your left, On the apartment to the right.. Feel free to park anywhere. Just don't make to much noise when visiting.
See you soon,
Love, John
DEBBIE AND RAY OORH
March 1, 2002
Jack was a very special friend to us for about 22 years. He has been our next door neighbour for the last 10 years since hurricane Andrew.
Jack had his key shop in our laundry mat for many years and his daughter Diana dated Rays son for about 3 years so we know him and his family very well.
I have never heard Jack say a bad word about anyone or seen him in a bad mood.
He was an uncle to our dog always taking her out if we were away along time, sometimes with out us asking him he would just come to visit her.
If I say uncle Jack to her she still raises her ears.
Jack cared for our home all summer while we were up north and picked up our mail.
We will truly miss him, it is still so hard to believe he is gone .
The other day Ray picked up the phone to call him just out of habbit since we always talked on a daily basis.
Heaven is a better place now because it has Jack.
Susan Rodehaver
February 28, 2002
When I was in high school, I was having an intolerable time at home. I had a new friend named Diana. I told her about my situation at home, and she asked her dad if I could move in with them. Jack took me (and my cat) in (literally) with open arms. He gave the best hugs! This was a man that exuded love. He will truly be missed by all of us that knew him and loved him! We were lucky to have known him! Diana and Susan... may you find peace and joy in the fond memories of your Dad.
Carolyn McIntyre
February 27, 2002
Jack was an adopted grandfather and friend. He always made me laugh and opened his home and heart willingly whenever I spontaneously visited. We daily kept in contact via email....I will deeply miss Jack. He will be remembered with every picture I take and every happy memory I have of him and his family - forever!!
- C
Diana Kennelly
February 27, 2002
Jack, John, Dad, Father,
We will all miss you very much. It is hard to describe how special you.. Where do I start?
You married my mother when I was 7-1/2 years old and adopted me and my older sister. You had our last names changed to yours and were more than a father and husband. You were a true daddy. You married mom December 4th, 1970 at our your house, our new home. I still have the champagne glasses you toasted with. I asked mom as I walked out in the living room together our first Christmas… “Mom did you marry a millionaire?” You spoiled us and mom. You were such a generous man. You were gentle, kind and loving. You showed my sister and I love that we did not have from our biological fathers. Our biological fathers showed up later in life and you shared us with them unselfishly because you wanted us to have more.
What a trial we must have been. To inherit an instant family, kids, cats, expenses and all and to do as well as you did is truly commendable. Others might have headed for the hills, but not you, you were always there for children who weren’t your natural children. You did things you did not have to do for us because you loved us as if we were your natural children. You treated us so well, better than most daughters could ever be treated. You were my ROCK. When mom moved out I was 15, I stayed with you. You kept me in my same high school and took great care of me. You made many sacrifices because you had standards you wanted to parent by. You took one of my closest friends in under our roof because of an abuse situation she was dealing with. This was to add to our collection of another you took in who wasn’t a cousin, but a friend to a cousin. You and mom were warm, loving wonderful people. The world, the day you died, has lost something most precious. You are a pearl among so many.
Every corner in your life, there are people that could tell similar stories about your kindness and generosity. I know you loaned many friends money when you had so little yourself.
Pop- I love you unconditionally and always have. I tried hard to remember a time when I was ever mad at you or when I felt we did not get along. I could not remember but one incidence we even really disagreed… I was upset because your reasoning was illogical… leave it to me to be upset about something illogical. You nurtured my feistiness rather than stifle it and helped me along with skills that I have needed for survival. My independence came at a young age for me, because of the strength you and mom gave me. I always felt as though I had a safe place to fall if I needed it. You were always open and willing to help. You taught me well and I had the occasion to help you a few times. It was so rewarding to me to be able to help you. I was honored to, because you did so much for us and I am proud of the way you raised us.
It has been hard to be so far away from you. But, you were never selfish about it. You have always wanted me to be happy and have encouraged me to go for whatever made me happy.
With your poor health and lung problems, you rose above it and kept such a positive and friendly attitude. You endeared yourself to so many people by just being who you were. It was so wonderful to see the turn out at the memorial, so many people loved you and you had so many friends.
Goodbye to you Daddy, you are by far the most precious man I will ever know.
Love to you Always,
Diana Kennelly
AKA – Stinky (laugh as you may, but that was my pet name given to me by pop when I was little, I asked him if I stunk… he said no, but I call you sister stretch because she’s tall… so I had to pick something cute that started with an ST for you.) Getting a pet name from him was so special, that I asked the judge to change my first name to Stinky when my dad adopted me and had my last name changed.
Crystal Krist
February 26, 2002
I only knew Jack for 3 or more years and John and I would always make an effort to go down and see him every year and some times more then once. He always made me feel like I was apart of them family. The first time I went down there I was afraid he wouldn't like me and John told me he loves everyone. And he did. I remember he had made us spaghetti and bread. He always made that when we went down there. I am seriously going to miss that about him.
Reg & Charla Sollows
February 23, 2002
As winter guests at the Goldcoaster,
we were Jack's neighbours. We will miss Jack on his deck,along with his friendly smile and wave.
Kathy MacWhorter
February 21, 2002
Diana,
Your father was a wonderful man. As we were growing up we spent alot of time at your house and I have very fond memories of your dad. He was always smiling, joking and laughing. And he would make it a point to get us to laugh with him. He will be missed very much. Also, Nicole wanted me to let you know that she will be saying prayers for him. Let me know if I can help you in any way.
Love,
Kathy, Bruce, Nicole and Nicholas
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