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Richard Kenny Obituary

KENNY-Richard Alan. After a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, Richard Alan Kenny, 57, of Kansas City, MO passed away at home on January 31, 2007. He was born August 20, 1949 in San Francisco, CA to Lois and Francis Kenny. He grew up in Omaha, NE and attended Benson High School and the University of Nebraska at Omaha where he was member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. After graduation he worked for Union Pacific for several years. He was an avid Chiefs, Royals and Nebraska Cornhuskers fan. From early childhood and throughout his life, Rich enjoyed visiting his family home in Letcher, S.D. He hosted annual hunting and fishing trips so that he could share his deep-rooted love of South Dakota with those closest to him. Rich had a passion for the restaurant business, which began when he moved to Kansas City in 1976 and opened Minsky's Pizza one of the first of many restaurant endeavors. However, he is best known for The Peanut, a place where Rich and his wife Melinda enjoyed working hand in hand for over 25 years. He most loved being "Mr. Cool" to his five grandchildren, Charlie Dunne (3), Samuel Whiteside (2), Christopher Tarzon (2), Darcy Dunne (2) and Lily Tarzon (4 months). He was preceded in death by his grandparents R.H. Brewer and Minnie Hutton Brewer of South Dakota, Alma and Francis Kenny Sr. of Nebraska and his father Francis Kenny Jr. of Omaha, NE and his mother Lois Kenny of Omaha, NE and Kansas City, MO. He is survived by his wife Mary Melinda Kenny, his children Carrie Kenny Tarzon of Wilmette, IL, Nicole Kenny Dunne of Wichita, KS, Garette Amis of Arlington, TX and Aaron Whiteside of Leawood, KS; sister, Susan Kenny Fowler of Taos, N.M.; brother Robert Kenny of Cedar Rapids, IA.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, February 2, at 11 AM at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 6415 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to PanCAN, 2141 Rosecrans Avenue, Suite 7000, El Segundo, CA 90245, (877) 272-6226, www.pancan.org. We wish to thank the doctors and nurses at M.D. Anderson in Houston, TX, St. Luke's Hospital and Hospice in Kansas City for their care and support. Rich's well-known sense of humor and zest for life will be carried on forever through his family and friends. (Arrangements by Muehlebach
Funeral Home, 816-444-2060)

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Omaha World-Herald on Feb. 1, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Kenny

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Kristin (Knightley) Moshier

February 15, 2007

Nicole,

I am so sorry to hear about your dad. My dad passed away from leukemia last year and I work with cancer patients now, so I know how tough this is. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Carol Phelps

February 13, 2007

Dear Melinda, Carrie, and family,

I went to St. Teresa's with Carrie and Nicole and met Rich once or twice in the peanut, but heard wonderful things about all of you during my friendship with Carrie in Chicago. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time, as I know it is sad and difficult.

fred kahn

February 12, 2007

Dear Melinda,
When G-d made Rich he broke the mold. Rich was all things to everybody. Most of my memories of Rich go back to the early 80's when we officed across the street from the Peanut on Main. He always asked me to bring him horse hair,(red) to tie flies for fishing. And ofcouse there was the video juke box that he let us plug in that never worked very well. Thru it all, Rich always had that special sence of humor. I hope you are doing ok, let me know if there is anything we can do for you. Best Wishes, Fred Kahn

Lissa Rathke

February 10, 2007

Melinda & The Peanut Family we have you in our thoughts and prayers. We will miss Rich greatly! We have always made a trip to the Peanut to see Rich when we are in KC visiting, what great times! And many,many laughs.
Our condolences.
Lissa & Chris

Holly D. White

February 7, 2007

Melinda and Family
I go way back to that Minsky's on 51st and Main as hostess and busser. I had such fun. In the 90's when I lived there and worked downtown, I would see Rich often and, of course, would endure the customary razzing when I saw him. I heard about his illness and when in town this past August, made an effort to get to The Cashew where I was told I was just two steps behind him. Alas, I never caught up with him. Anyway, my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Peace to you.

Sandy Chism

February 6, 2007

Melinda & The Peanut family. Rich's spirit and zest for living were contagious. His sharp wit had that edge that all Peanut regulars loved and envied. The stories are too numerous to tell but it is safe to say we will be telling them and laughing at them for years to come. We loved him, he is already greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Mike and Sandy Chism, Shawnee, KS

Kent & Linda Stancliffe

February 6, 2007

Melinda & Family: We were so sorry to hear of your loss. You have our deepest sympathy, and may God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Anne Quinly

February 5, 2007

Dear Melinda and Family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers now and always. May your hearts keep dancing and and your spirits be lifted as you live with the memories of one of the greatest and most generous men I have had the pleasure of knowing. He has given so much to so many. If we all take what we received from Richard Alan Kenny, the sun will always shine in our hearts.
God Bless.
Anne Quinly

Linda Williams

February 4, 2007

My memories of Rich are so numerous and every one of them makes me smile - even if didn't at the time!!. It's a true rarity to have that quality. Rich brought out things in others that no one else dare even try. He was a force, and I am fortunate to have been affected. He of course will be missed, but he also will be present in thoughts and memories constantly. My sincere prayers for Melinda, all his family and friends, and all who came in contact with him to see the joy he brought us all was indeed a gift, and that they find comfort in that.

Ted Kahn

February 3, 2007

Melinda;
Rich was a great friend to me for the last 25 years. We will miss him dearly. All my best to you.

Ted Kahn

Paul Gustafson

February 3, 2007

Rich was and is my best friend. Although he is gone in the flesh he is with us everyday with his unique sense of humor and zest for life. He taught us not to worry about the small stuff and to enjoy life and the people around us. Just think of all the people you know just because you knew Rich and visited The Peanut. It is always said that you never know whether the person walking down the street is an angel in disguise. Well, I'm sure Rich was our angel sent to bring us all together to enjoy the wonders of life. We'll miss him here but I am sure he's got them jumping and laughing up in heaven right now.

Michelle Davis

February 2, 2007

To Melinda and family,

Rich lived a very full wonderful life and will always be remembered by many people. He was one special person. My prayers are with you and your family.

Liane Costa

February 2, 2007

Melinda, my condolences to you & your family. So very sorry for your loss.

Colleen Brudny (Kenny)

February 2, 2007

Rich was a very generous family man. He has definitely left his mark! He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

His cousin Colleen (Kenny) Brudny

Christine Jones (Olson)

February 2, 2007

Dear Melinda & Family:
Rich will always have a special place in my heart. I will never forget his unique humor, contageous smile and caring spirit. I am blessed to have called him my friend. You are in my thoughts & prayers and I wish you spiritual comfort now and always.

Valerie McLarry

February 2, 2007

Garrette I pray that the Lord will provide you and your family with the grace that is sufficient during this time of grief.

Shawn Raydo

February 2, 2007

Hey family....Summer and I send our most sincere love and support to you. All of you have been part of my life for such a very long time. Please know that we send a wave of positive energy to you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and for Rich. Much Love

Powell Carman

February 2, 2007

Melinda - you're in our thoughts & prayers. You and Rich are in some of our greatest memories, and the catalyst for many life long friendships. God Bless.

Powell & Kelley Carman

Ellen Yehling

February 2, 2007

Melinda & kids - We are so sorry for your loss. What a great guy (and great friend) Rich was, and what wonderful memories we all have of him. You're in our thoughts and prayers - Ellen & Georgeanne Yehling

Brock Lewark

February 2, 2007

My deepest sympathies to all. Rich always made us smile and he will be missed.

steve williams

February 2, 2007

rich had an infectious personality and a wonderful sense of humor. my thoughts and prayers go out to the family. god bless

Dan Dutcher

February 2, 2007

To Melinda, family and Nut Fans everywhere:

My condolances and prayers. Rich was unique, and part of what makes KC such a great place. We will miss him dearly, but know that his spirit and legacy will live on. The Nut will always be home to me.

Dutch

Maggie Bradley

February 2, 2007

Melinda and kids:
My husband and I met at the Peanut and always remember Rich roaming around asking us how things were. We were both so sad to hear of your loss. Kansas City won't be the same without him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Shaun Gentry

February 2, 2007

Melinda, Aaron, Heather & Family --- So sorry to learn of Rich's passing. He was always so much fun and cared so much for his family. I've never known someone so connected and who inspired so much positive energy. He will be deeply missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Kent & Juli Perry

February 1, 2007

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

linda newton

February 1, 2007

my sympathy and prayers for your painful loss and my gratitude for the wonderful friendship. love,learning, laughs, and joy Rich brought to my son Lance for so many years, kansas city has lost a treasure..linda newton

Jill and Robert Oliver

February 1, 2007

We are so sorry for your family's loss. Rich was a great guy, and was a big part of the reason we spent so much time at the Peanut. They are memories that will last a lifetime. He will be missed so much.

Debbie Belt Murphy

February 1, 2007

Melinda, My heart goes out to you. My family has so many happy memories of Rich and your family and all the good times at the lake, especially 4th of July! Rich loved doing the fireworks and provided entertainment in so many funny ways. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. My love to you.

Gary Peterson

February 1, 2007

Melinda and family,
I'm very sorry to hear about Rich's passing. I will truly miss him, his banter and insults.

Leon Smith

February 1, 2007

Melinda, you are in Michelle and my thoughts and prayers. I am glad to have known Rich, he always made me laugh and feel welcomed.

JAY ROE

February 1, 2007

Melinda Iam very sorry for your loss.I LOVED HIM, HE WAS A GOOD FREIND, I'LL MISS HIM A LOT.
JAY ROE [JC LOVE] GV. MO.

Ed Roberts

February 1, 2007

Rich was the epitome of what was best about Kansas City. Always kind, generous with his time, and uniquely funny, he made The Peanut home to so many. It is a small place, made smaller now without him.

Mike Eastwood

February 1, 2007

Rich was a friend to all that knew him. The world would be a better place with more people like him. My prayers to the Kenny family.

pam stueve

February 1, 2007

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Jim Nigro

February 1, 2007

Melinda and Kids: so sorry for your loss, 31 years of memories for me, as close as brothers for many years.Sorry I can`t come home for sevices.Praying for all of you.

Connie Brannan

February 1, 2007

Garette, I love you and you and your family will be in my prayers. If I can do anything for you please call me.

Jim Aylward

February 1, 2007

Melinda and Aaron, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Rich was such a great person to be around and even better to work for/with. I learned a lot from him and always appreciated the kindness, dedication, and committment he had for his employees, friends, and family. There are many memories and phrases I have from Rich that I think of all the time. Rich seemed larger than life at times and if you were close to him, you also saw the very kind "teddy bear" side. He touched a lot of people and will truely be missed. I wish I could be there, but in my absence, know that I thank God for all the time over the years I got to spend with Rich.

Lawrence Countee

February 1, 2007

Rich was a good man and a fun one to be around. Working those many years at Minsky's with him are times I'll never forget. He put me to work on the good word from a friend,and that was good enough for him. And man,could he make you laugh! He will be sorely missed.

Joe Zielinski

February 1, 2007

Heartfelt condolences go out to you Melinda, and the entire Peanut family. Your loss is shared by the entire community. I will always treasure the memories of how Rich could light up a room the moment he entered and would keep everyone on their toes till he saw fit to exit – in his own unique and striking style.

Stephanie L. Brennan

February 1, 2007

Melinda, My deepest sympathy to you at this very difficult time. Rich was truly a genuine person and funny til you cry. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family Melinda.

Stephanie L. Brennan

Emily Cash

February 1, 2007

My condolences and prayers for your family. Garette has told many loving stories about Mr. Cool. I know he will be missed.

Jenni Croxton

February 1, 2007

Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Scott & Pam Thompson

February 1, 2007

We were very sorry to hear the sad news. Our thougths and prayers are with all of you.

Kay Orth Kendall

February 1, 2007

My thoughts and prayers go to Melinda and to all Rich's family. He passed too soon but his relatives and friends were clearly made happier and more content for his time among them.

Ann Kaplan Kruska

February 1, 2007

To Melinda, the entire Kenny family, and the Peanut family as well,
I'm so sorry. I don't even think of Kansas City without thinking of Rich and the Peanut. I loved my time working there and so much of that was Rich's generosity and sense of humor.

Joel Frey

February 1, 2007

Rich, his humor and genuine enthusiasm for living, will be missed. He certainly made the world a funnier place. I am very sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Mary Baker

February 1, 2007

What a guy! You were a GREAT Dad, a GREAT friend, but most of all (for me) a GREAT Uncle. I love you and I'll miss you and your sense of humor.

Bob Cunningham

February 1, 2007

I am so sorry to have lost such a wonderful friend. My memories of you will keep me laughing for years...I am so lucky to have known you. My thoughts and prayers are with Melinda and your family in this time. God Bless You Rich!!

Kieran & Heather

February 1, 2007

Rich was extremely generous to us when we first moved to KC from the UK. He went out of his way to help us settle into life in Kansas. He will be deeply missed. God Bless.

Christine Hutto

February 1, 2007

Dearest Kenny Family, We are very sorry for your loss and you all are in our thoughts and prayers. Rich was a wonderful, kind, and hard working man. He will be remembered! Your neighbors, The Huttos

July 23, 2006

Casey Hargreaves

February 1, 2007

I feel so lucky to have known Rich, even if it was for a short time. He definately made The Cashew a great place to work. His passion for life and family is inspiring. He meant so much to so many. He will be missed.

Sunny Greenberg

February 1, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. Be assured my prayers are with your family.

Kathleen Thompson

February 1, 2007

Dear Melinda,

Our hearts go out to you and your family.

Donna Harmon

February 1, 2007

You made us laugh until our faces hurt, you will be sorely missed. I feel blessed to have seen you recently and more blessed to have known you. My thoughts and prayers to Melinda and the family.

Brad Epsten

February 1, 2007

I will miss Rich, his words of wisdom and his welcoming presence. He touched the lives of so many people and definatley left an indelible positive mark. I feel honored to have been his friend.

Catherine Root

February 1, 2007

My deepest sympathies to Melinda and family. I'm sorry I can't be there to celebrate Rich's life. He will truly be missed.

Joe & Terri Blackwood

February 1, 2007

Rich has left us way to soon, please accept our deepest sympathies.

Dennis F Barton

February 1, 2007

Melinda, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Marcia Montgomery

February 1, 2007

Melinda,

I am SO SORRY to hear of Rich's death. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Patrick Laumeyer

February 1, 2007

we will allways remember his zest for life and cocktail of natural humor

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