Robert S. Kenning

Robert Stanley Kenning of Birmingham, Michigan died on April 16, 2024. He was 100 years old. Bob was born on September 20, 1923 in Minneapolis, MN to parents, Theodore and Nettie Kenning.
After attending the University of Minnesota for 2 years, he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942. After discharge, he returned and graduated from University of Minnesota with a dual major of Civil Engineering and Business. While attending University of Minnesota he worked as a "Soda Jerk" where he developed his lifelong love of ice cream. He worked for Bass Engineering initially, then began his career at the City of Birmingham as Assistant DPW Superintendent. He advanced to City Manager where he served for many years and was honored with the dedication of Kenning Park at retirement. After retiring from the City of Birmingham, Bob worked for many years as the Director of the nonprofit Oakland Housing, where he built two subdivisions in Pontiac. These homes enabled families to establish home ownership in a thriving neighborhood.
Bob Kenning was a hard-working honest man with a deep belief in the Lord, and was one good looking fisherman. He loved his wife Shirley in a way that everyone deserves to be loved and built a life with her that taught the rest of us what unconditional meant. What was astonishing was his ability to craft anything out of wood - which he would promptly give away to bring joy to others. A couple of weeks in Minnesota at the family cabin each summer included the biggest fish contest which always resulted in embellished stories.
For his grandchildren he was a moral compass. He was also a vacation planner, chauffeur, tour guide and entertainment wrapped up as one perfect grandpa. He was a teacher, therapist and supporter and held the belief that anything could be fixed. He gave the VERY BEST hugs. He thought about his words before he spoke them and did not believe in saying "I told you so".
He instilled family traditions and taught us to always say "yes" whenever offered donuts, root beer, or ice cream.
He will be remembered in love, forever.
Bob is survived by his loving children, Jim (Kitty) Kenning, Steve (Patricia) Kenning, and Tom (Melanie McCoy) Kenning and his cherished grandchildren, Kristin (Brian Viliunas) Kenning, Sarah (Ry) Charters, Robert Kenning, Katherine (Jeremiah Baker) Kenning, Kristine (James Dye) Kenning, Douglas Kenning, and Mary (Jay Swinson) Kenning. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Robert, Henry, Willow, Penny, Robin, Luca, and Mason. Bob is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley and his siblings, Carlton and Pearl.
Visitation will be at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, 1368 N. Crooks Road (between 14 & 15 Mile Roads) Clawson, Michigan on Friday, May 10, 2024 from 4-8pm. A Funeral Service will be at Highland Park Baptist Church, 28600 Lahser Road, Southfield on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10am. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Birmingham, Michigan.