Joseph John Kenny

Kenny, Joseph John

79, died peacefully at home with his family on April 15, 2022. Beloved husband of Helen Kenny (Moore) for 56 years; dear father of Tamara, Lisa (Mark), Joseph, and Michael (Stefanie); devoted grandfather of Nicholas, Casey, Grace, Matthew, Andrew, Hannah, Paige, and Thomas; cherished brother of Mary Boland (Donald); much-loved uncle, brother-in-law, cousin, friend, neighbor, and colleague. Joe was preceded in death by his parents Joseph Kenny and Mildred Kenny (Kutz), sisters Patricia Hutchison and Jacquelyn Ems, and grandson Elias Engel.

Joe was a graduate of St. Mary's High School and Saint Louis University. He served in the United States Army and, for many years, as alderman for the City of Lakeshire. He retired from Ralston Purina in 2002 after 33 years of service and spent the many happy years to follow in the near-constant company of Helen whom he loved with all his heart. He was a committed member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Joe's priority was always his family, both the family from which he came and the family he created with Helen. He was devoted to his neighbors and friends, both life-long and new, and rarely passed a stranger without offering a warm greeting. Joe could offer serious advice on financial and other matters and turn on a dime to say something silly that drew squeals of laughter from his grandchildren. He loved summertime and tending to his beautiful backyard and garden: he grew a mean tomato for a city boy.

Joe prided himself on being tough and independent, but when his illness required a level of vulnerability and dependence, he rose to the challenge and allowed his family and friends to support and care for him. He was grateful for the many healthy years he lived and for all the lovely people he met along the way. Joe left this world with dignity and grace to meet the Father he so faithfully served all his life. We will miss him greatly and look forward to one day being with him again.

Services: Funeral Mass Thursday, April 21, 2022, 11 a.m. at Seven Holy Founders Catholic Church in Affton with visitation with Joe's family at church beginning at 10 a.m. Burial at Resurrection Cemetery immediately following Mass. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Seven Holy Founders Church.