Name: Visitation for Robin Molyneaux Kennedy
Start: 2018-10-18T20:00:00.000Z
End: 2018-10-19T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Walker Funeral Home

Robin Molyneaux Kennedy

Robin Molyneaux Kennedy, born on January 6, 1945 was suddenly given back to the Lord on October 10, 2018.

He was the consummate teacher; a professor of law at the University of Toledo for forty-five years, specializing in clinical legal education. He obtained a B.A. degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1967 and a J.D. degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1970. He was admitted to the Bar in Ohio in 1970 and in Florida in 1971. Prior to joining the faculty at the College of Law, he held positions as the attorney-in-charge with the Hospital Legal Services Project and as a staff attorney with the Cleveland Legal Aid Society. Throughout his career, Robin made countless contributions to the well being of the citizens of Ohio, as teacher, mentor, clinician, faculty, colleague and friend.

He is survived by his loving family, wife Cynthia, married for 42 years; daughters, Elizabeth Feniger (David) and Erin Kennedy (Josh Vella); and son, Patrick Kennedy. The greatest joys in his life were his grandsons and granddaughters, Yale Feniger, Olivia Vella, Robert Vella, Vivian Vella, Thomas Vella, and William Kennedy. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Ruth and Ralph Kennedy, and his brother Randolph.

These words will not, and could not, express what he meant to his family, friends, and anyone who met him. He made an impact on everyone he met. He would say, "I never met a man I didn't like". He loved his life and lived every moment to the fullest. He was also an avid golfer, a barbershop quartet singer, and proud Notre Dame fan.

Visiting hours will be held in the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. (west of Corey Rd.) on Thursday, October 18, 2018 from 4 to 8 p.m. he funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 19, 2018 at Gesu Church, 2049 Parkside Blvd. A reception will be held following the funeral at the University of Toledo, College of Law. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Robin M. Kennedy Memorial Fund at The University of Toledo College of Law.

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Published by The Blade on Oct. 14, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Robin Kennedy

26 Entries

Barry Biggin

January 3, 2019

Robin was a classmate of mine at Shaker Heights High School. He was a wonderful friend who had the greatest laugh. I remember going out with Robin and Dick Bauernschimdt on many a Saturday evening, and on our way out, we would swing by his church so he could say his "confession". That way he could start out the evening with a clean slate. I also remember many great times at his house with his parents and his brothers.
Fondly,
Barry Biggin
Shaker Class of 1963

George and Janet Smith

October 25, 2018

Robin was the nicest person I think I ever met and it showed right away. There was a kindness and gentleness about him. You could not help but love the man and respect him. I spent many hours golfing with him during the time I worked as a staff attorney in the Legal Clinic at UT College of Law. He was quite the golfer, unlike myself who hit just enough good shots to come back for more punishment. I loved to hear him laugh and am proud that I could brighten his day during a round of golf when he saw me duff my tee shot, hook my second shot into the pond to my left and then my third. He stood in the fairway witnessing my folly and roared with laughter when I hurled my three wood out of disgust only to see it, too, hook to the left and go into the pond. I enjoyed his laughter even then for I knew it was not at my expense. I remember a party at his house where he sang Under the Boardwalk--and quite well, I might add. Everytime I hear that song, I think of him. I am so sad to hear of his passing and my heart goes out to his family for I am sure he is sorely missed. May peace be with you and God bless you.

Rick Sorgen

October 23, 2018

Cindy, Elizabeth, Patrick and Erin;
My heart was filled with sorrow when I learned of Robin's passing. My deepest sympathy reaches out to and for you. Robin and you and the children were true friends of mine and I will always cherish the memories of the time we spent together. I will remember the joy Robin could bring to everyone he encountered. His smile and sense of humor, his brilliant mind, his compassion to fellow man, his endless effort to reach out and help those in need, will be his lasting grace on everyone. You are in my prayers, Rick Sorgen, Portage, MI.

Monica Hoskins

October 19, 2018

I always remember Prof. Kennedy laughing and smiling. Very friendly and outgoing. My condolences to his family. God Bless.

Anthony Garcia

October 19, 2018

Professor Kennedy was one of the friendliest and funniest professors I have ever had. He always made time to help you with anything you needed, and he played a big part of why I had such a great experience at UT Law. The College and the community will miss him for sure. My condolences to his family and friends. Thanks for everything Professor Kennedy!

Pat Braun

October 19, 2018

As old neighbors, we have find memories of Robin. Our deepest sympathy for his dear family and friends.

Ron & Dianne Davis

October 18, 2018

Cindy and family, Robin truly left a mark on mankind as he was such a kind man himself and gentle gentleman. Such traits of his will last forever in our hearts and memories. His engaging smile, love of life and genuine interest in others. Working with you over the years Cindy was such an important positive part in my life as you and Robin enjoyed your lives and family together. I always appreciated hearing about your family and their growth. Robin and you have both touched the lives of so many in such caring ways. Dianne and I hold you and your family in our prayers through this difficult journey.

Paul Hancock

October 18, 2018

Cindy and family, I am greatly saddened to hear of Robin's passing. My time with Robin as a student and a young attorney in his legal clinic in the late 1970's was critical in forming my skills and values which have served me well for 40 years. During those early years, he was always beaming about his lovely and talented wife and his beautiful baby, Elizabeth. I learned many valuable lessons from my time with Robin and they included that everyone should be given due process and zealous representation and that service to those in need is an honorable pursuit. There were a few people in my career I encountered at just the right time that gave me a break that I needed and Robin was one of them. Robin also was one of the most charismatic people I have ever met in a most genuine way who showed great interest in those around him. Your lovely family has suffered a great loss and my sadness is with you but I'm very fortunate to have known Robin at a critical point in my life and career and will forever have fond memories of him.

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Scott Vargovich

October 17, 2018

I'm so sorry. I loved Robin since I first met him with the Stateline Barbershop Chorus. You will be missed. Praying for Cindy and the family.

Paul Churdar

October 16, 2018

Cindy and family,
My deepest condolences for your loss. May the many wonderful memories of Robin help soothe your pain. While just a neighbor, I felt close to Robin and loved his humor and attitude about life. I regret I am in Arizona and will be unable to attend the services. Robin will be missed by all.

Chris Marcinko

October 16, 2018

What.a great professor and man Dr Kennedy was! I am so sorry to hear of his passing. As a UT Law alumnus 04, I had Mr. Kennedy for the Reinberger Prosecution program and a clinic. He had a unique teaching style that I still reflect on frequently in court. His informal style was greatly appreciated! I still fondly recall him bringing a case of beer into the moot courtroom for the Reinberger students at the end of orientation week! He was involved in some of my most memorable law school experiences. God Bless Dr. Kennedy and his family!

Jim Licata

October 15, 2018

Dear Cindy, my heart is broken. Such a wonderful man and such wonderful memories of how he loved his family and his friends and especially the babies. Every day smiling and loving life. We miss you Robin

Anant

October 15, 2018

My first class with Professor Kennedy was a prosecutor legal clinic in my 3rd year. The clinic was required curriculum, and as a student that was 100% sure to end up in practicing transactional law, it was seemingly not that important just a requirement.

The minute I walked into Professor Kennedy's class, our eyes met, we exchanged greetings, and I instantly knew I met a special person. His smile was infectious, calming and inviting. I immediately felt I was in the presence of a special soul that would go the extra mile to teach us a lesson. The structure of the curriculum was a few weeks of in-class material followed by real world practicum in my case working for the local prosecutor. One of Professor's first lessons was how to interview and interact with victims of crime.

One of the first lessons Robin taught us was to listen to the victim and to truly understand their unique position. He stressed that it was extremely important not to judge the victim by their socioeconomic class, their race, or their appearance - but to listen to each story, ask poignant questions, and to most of all treat each and every person with compassion. After a few weeks of classroom material, we graduated to our various posts in courthouses around the county. As a privileged kid who grew up in the Toledo suburbs I felt nervous and out of place - I was meeting with victims of domestic violence people who were of less privilege, education individuals who had lived tough lives and wanted a safe place to call home and to raise their families. I remember asking myself before each interview, what would Robin Kennedy do? I engaged with victims and held Professor Kennedy's lessons in the back of my head as we spoke. Often times our conversations would last upward of an hour, but I could sincerely feel how much they appreciated that I took the time to understand their problems and take any necessary next steps.

Professor Kennedy was truly a good man with a kind soul. We became close for the remainder of my time at Toledo Law. We would crack jokes, hug it out in the hallways and grab drinks on the weekends at Fusion Bistro. I felt I had found not only a mentor but made a great friend. When I graduated law school, he wrote me a heartfelt letter that I will never forget. He mentioned he was proud of me and encouraged me to achieve my dreams and goals. I was amazed that he took the time to write and mail me such a letter.

Professor Kennedy was a good man and I am incredibly sad to hear of his passing. My sincere condolences to his family as I know this time must be difficult. Please know that he touched the lives of many.

Anant T
UTLaw Class of 2014

Meredith

October 15, 2018

I am a UT law graduate. Whilst I sadly did not end up taking one of his classes, on numerous occasions we had the chance to chat. I recall his daughter as a runner and at several races, he cheered his daughter on. He also made sure to cheer me on as well. Things that seem minor often are not. Godspeed Professor.

William Mott Jr.

October 15, 2018

To The Kennedy Family: I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Professor Kennedy. He was an incredible gentleman and educator responsible for everything I know about Family Law and Mental Health Law. He was always approachable, inspiring and supportive, learned and humorous and proud of his family. Invariably, he was one of the gems around the UT Law School that made sure that I had the best of legal training and I'm sure countless others would attest to the same. I'm glad our life paths crossed and thankful for the positive influences that came my way because of it. Godspeed to you all in this difficult time. William Mott Jr., Richmond, Virginia

October 15, 2018

My heartfelt condolences to the Kennedy family. I have such good memories of Henry's and my time in Toledo, and seeing Robin carry Liz so often that my husband would forever tell him that she would never learn to walk! What a kind and wonderful man Robin was.

Barbara (and Henry) Schaffer

After a late season Irish win

James Thompson

October 15, 2018

I met Robin through a mutual friend over ten years ago and it was custom for us to go to Notre Dame football games together He was always someone who introduced himself to other fans in the stands before and after games and loved talking about his family Robin enjoyed people and was always looking out for others to make sure they enjoyed the Notre Dame experience on football Saturdays even if it meant giving up his tickets so they could goI have many happy memories of being his friend and enjoying life and in living our faith

October 15, 2018

Heartbreaking news. He was always a ray of sunshine. He was a friendly face the year I taught at UT Law, and a fond memory always.

Mary Beth Beazley
UNLV

Pavel Sullivan

October 15, 2018

Robin truly is one of a kind. I'll never forget all the laughs, the singing, and even the back of the napkin puzzles he'd routinely share with me during my childhood. He made an indelible impression on my life, and I already miss him dearly. My love and condolences to Cindy, Liz, Patrick, Erin, and the entire family.

Elizabeth Simcox

October 14, 2018

Earth had a hero. Now Heaven has an Angel.
Always in our hearts.

John McSweeny

October 14, 2018

Robin was one of may favorite people at the UT College of Law. He was genuinely friendly and helpful. Robin definitely cared about his students and it showed. I will also miss our occasional conversations about this, that and the other thing. They were always fun! Godspeed Robin! I will miss you but your knowledge and wisdom will live on through your students and colleagues including me.

Martha Adams

October 14, 2018

The joy of knowing Robin and sharing time singing with him in the Gesu choir will always be with me. His memory remains a smiling gift in my heart.

Douglas Ray

October 14, 2018

I had the privilege of being Robin's friend and colleague at the University of Toledo College of Law for several years. His good spirit, his humility, and the grace with which he went through life made him a special friend to all and someone whose memory will be treasured. My deepest condolences to Cindy and his family.

Rick S.

October 13, 2018

Robin was such a great person in many ways, but mostly a positive force in Life for all of us having the chance to know him. RIP Robin; all condolences to his Family.

Ty Mahaffey

October 13, 2018

Dear Cindy,You probably don't know me, but I was a student of Professor Kennedy's. I cannot put into words how much your husband inspired me. His classroom was always exciting. He was approachable and never made anyone feel intimidated. He bought pizza and beverages for his final exam review sessions. He taught me well, but his enthusiasm did not end when the semester did.

I also had the honor of knowing him outside of the classroom. I played poker with him along with other friends. He always made us laugh by pretending not to know how good his poker hands really were as he collected our money. He never acted like he was better than anyone and was always excited to see me when we'd bump into each other at court. We had breakfast and talked of many subjects. I always called him Professor Kennedy and he would roll his eyes and say Please, call me Robin! We'd kiddingly argue about who would pay the bill, each time the other would promise to pay the next time. He always had time to listen, and he genuinely cared about whatever my issues were. He offered amazing advice, rooted in kindness and compassion.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing him to know me and time do those things with me, and the hundreds of others I know he inspired. I pray to God that when I pass, I will have brought as much happiness to others as he did. Without question, I will aspire to emulate his kind demeanor, compassionate nature and amazing character. God bless you and your family.
Ty S Mahaffey, Class of 2002

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