Thomas James Kenner

 

Thomas James Kenner (Tom) passed away unexpectedly on May 12, 2023, at the age of 64.

Tom was born in San Francisco, CA, on August 30, 1958 to Gerald and Laura Kenner. He would eventually relocate to Orange County, CA, where at the age of 16 he pulled up next to a car full of teenage girls and challenged them to a race down Beach Blvd. Tom didn’t know it at the time, but the cautious driver of the other car (who declined to race) would be the woman he’d eventually marry, Sindy Dobrowolski.

After graduating from John F. Kennedy High School, Tom went on to study mechanics at Arizona Automotive Institute. Upon completion of his studies in 1977, Tom accepted a position at Subaru of America, where he would spend the entirety of his 45-year career in many roles and ending as a field service engineer.

Tom’s work for Subaru brought him and his family to Highlands Ranch, CO, in 1993, where he and Sindy raised their two children, Christopher Kenner of Colorado Springs and Jaclyn Dougherty of Parker. It was the perfect location for Tom, who had a deep appreciation for nature and enjoyed spending time outdoors. Whether it was hiking in the mountains, riding his motorcycle through the canyons, or simply riding his bike through the neighborhood, he found beauty and tranquility in Colorado’s rocky terrain.

Tom was an exemplary father, always present and supportive of his children's endeavors, providing them with unwavering guidance and love. He was so proud of the successful, principled people they grew up to be and the beautiful families they are raising.

Beyond his family, Tom was known for his generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He rarely went anywhere he didn’t encounter a new friend, and many of those casual interactions flourished into lifelong friendships.

Tom leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered for his unwavering integrity, his gentle spirit, and his boundless love for his family and friends.

Tom is survived by his wife of 44 years, Sindy Kenner, his son Christopher Kenner, daughter Jaclyn Dougherty, son-in-law Michael Dougherty, his grandchildren, Duncan, Ellie, Maclyn, Charlotte, Evelyn, and Emilia, his Uncle Marvin and Aunt Claudia Kenner.

A celebration of life will be held on June 9, 2023, at 11:00 am at Dixon Chapel at Cherry Hills Community Church, 3908 Grace Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. We invite you to brighten the day with vibrant attire in honor of the man who brought so much joy to our lives. Donations can be made to Cherry Hills Community Church, payable to CHCC and mailed to 3900 Grace Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. Pastoral Care Ministry (on behalf of Tom Kenner) can be designated in the memo field.

You are invited to a Celebration of Life honoring Tom, to RSVP click here.