John Michael Kennedy Sr.

John “Mike” Michael Kennedy Sr, entered eternal life on Monday, August 15th, 2016. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, 5 children, his mother, 5 brothers, 4 sisters, 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, countless nephews and nieces, “Lucky” the dog, extended family, and friends. Anyone who knew John, aka Mike, aka Pops, aka Papa John, aka grandad, Aka Uncle Mike, etc., knows that he could talk forever and was all about debates and sharing knowledge. If you knew Mike, you probably learned that he was always right and knew everything. You probably learned that in order to properly lecture a young man you must always start with one eye squinted, teeth biting your bottom lip followed by “Come here brotha man” or “Just the man I’ve been looking for”, finished up with a long list of expletives. You probably learned to be kind and speak to everyone you cross paths with. You probably learned that the previous statement included having a full on conversation with a stranger who only spoke Vietnamese. You probably picked up at least one phrase in elvish after watching “Lord of the Rings” a 100 times with him. You probably learned to enunciate the “w” in the word sword. From August through January, you probably heard him curse the San Diego Chargers from 3-4 blocks away. You probably learned that the remains of the first man we’re indeed excavated in Chicago, IL. You probably learned that in order to properly smack someone upside the head the palm must connect at a 45 degree angle. You probably learned to fix a minimum 3 household items that haven’t been useful since the early 1990’s. You probably know he could “break wind” and clear this whole funeral home. If you knew Mike you probably learned to be selfless. You probably learned to give when you have little to nothing. You probably learned to love unconditionally and to never give up on anyone. If you knew Mike, you know that he worked everyday to help you realize that you have the potential to be greater than you ever thought you could be. If you knew Mike then you should be inspired to live. No moping, no pitying yourself, no giving up. Now to honor Mike the best way possible, he would’ve asked that you do three things:

1. Take a walk and share a conversation with a complete stranger.

2. Tell your loved ones you love them EVERY CHANCE you get.

3. Raise a few extra shots of tequila tonight, preferably his good friend Jose Cuervo.