Kenny Wolfe

Kenny Wolfe passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025 at his home. Kenny faced his long illness with a smile and a joke. He reminded us every day that hope and humor can outlast any diagnosis. He was a proud husband, dad, and Papa. He believed in building not just structures, but also relationships and memories that stand the test of time. He did just this with his infectious laugh, his dance moves, being the life of the party, and unwavering kindness. One of his memorable sayings was, "Treat others the way you want to be treated, no matter if they have millions in the bank or a dollar in the bank." "We all put on our pants on the same way."
He devoted his life to his family. Kenny loved nothing more than being a grandad, more affectionately "Papa Kenny" to his grandkids. He loved to teach his kids and grandkids life lessons. He taught them the meaning of success and work ethic. "If you are done with your job and you see a broom, pick it up and sweep." In other words, don't ever sit down on the job; stay busy. Kenny worked in the mines, but when not at work, he could be found at his grandkids' ball games, school functions, and milestone events. When he wasn't with his kids and grandkids, he enjoyed being at his lake house, boating, and horse riding with friends.
Kenny was born to James and Helen Wolfe. He grew up in Waverly, Kentucky, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep love for his family. He was a devout Catholic and strong in his faith. He made sure to let it be known God and church comes first. He attended grade school at St Vincent Academy and St. Peter's. He graduated from Union County High School in 1974.
After graduating from high school, he went on to pursue a career in coal mining at the early age of 17. He dedicated himself to this profession for 46 years, when he retired from River View Coal as assistant safety director. When asked what he did for a living, he would say, "I am a coal miner." He never viewed himself above others, regardless of his position in the mines. His colleagues became more than just colleagues; they became friends and family.
He married his high school sweetheart, Donna Wolfe, at the age of 18. Donna was his constant companion and greatest support. She was the love of his life. She was his partner in all things, sharing a deep and enduring bond built on love and loyalty. Together, they shared 51 years of marriage, walking through every chapter of life side by side.
He believed in building not just structures, but also relationships and memories that stand the test of time. Kenny was an extraordinary man who acted like an ordinary man. He was an amazing friend, brother, uncle, husband, dad, and Papa.
He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Helen Wolfe, his brother Billy Wolfe, his brother in laws, Bud Ervin, Harold Girten, and Larry Joe Jenkins. Two nephews, Don Wolfe and Jody Jenkins.
He is survived by his wife Donna of 51 years. His two children, Megan Meyer (JD) of Owensboro and Jerrad Wolfe (Fran) of Nashville. He has 7 grandchildren. His brothers, Arnold Wolfe (June) of Morganfield, Gary Wolfe (Phyllis) of Waverly, and two sisters, Jeanie Girten of Uniontown and Barb Jenkins of Morganfield. His brother-in-law, Donnie Ervin (Becky) of Uniontown, and sister-in-law Marylyn Ervin of Boxville, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 10 AM December 3, 2025 at St. Ann's Church, burial in the St. Ann's Cemetery
Visitation will be 4-7 PM Tuesday and 8:30 AM until service time on Wednesday at Whitsell Funeral Home in Morganfield, KY.
In Lieu of flowers and gifts, please donate to the Kenny Wolfe Scholarship for students seeking a career in technical education. These donations can be delivered to Issac Sterett Adventure Foundation, PO Box 22698, Owensboro, KY 42304 or Whitsell Funeral Home in Morganfield.