Robert S. Kenning

Hello. I am sure Bob would never remember me but I will never forget him. In the late 1970s, I was a young lawyer with the Banta Hoyt law firm. I was able to serve as assistant city attorney, attending city council meetings (what were they thinking??!) and got to observe Bob in action, dealing with difficult councilmembers with grace and humility. I always admired his dedication to the ICMA code of ethics and his actions based on personal integrity. I moved away from Michigan but later transitioned my career to serve as a city manager myself - and Bob was always my touchstone for integrity and public service. I retired a few years ago as the city manager of Boulder CO and whenever asked "who was your mentor", Bob came to mind. He never knew this. He was one of the finest people I have ever known.
Two fun memories: one Monday night I had to be the attorney at the council meeting. It was my birthday and I was really sad about that. But after the meeting Bob took us all (staff) out for pie at a pie shop on Woodward. It was such a sweet gesture that I have never forgotten.
Bob and Shirley invited staff to a get together at their home. Before entering, he posted a sign at the door with "rules" including that we could NOT talk about the city. I loved that. What a fun night it was!
Jane Brautigam
Littleton, CO