Charles E. Kennedy

ROCHESTER, MINN: Charles E. Kennedy, Jr., 90, formerly of Worthington, MN, passed away March 22, 2012 at The Homestead. Charles was born September 3, 1921 in Scott City, KS to Charles Sr. and Forrest Lulu (King) Kennedy. Charles graduated Valedictorian of his Scott City High School Class of 1939. On March 4, 1944 he married Maxine Vold in Salt Lake City, UT. He was a veteran of the US Army Air Corps ( Air Force), proudly serving his country during WWII. He was in the European Theater with the 8th Air Force and the 489th Bomb Squad. He farmed in Southwest Minnesota for 10 years and worked for Greeley Gas for over 25 years. Before moving to Rochester in 2003, Charles spent time living in Worthington, MN and Donna, TX. Charles had a strong faith and was always very active in the churches he attended throughout his life. He was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church, Shriners, Masons, American Legion, VFW and was also a Worthy Patron of Eastern Star. Charles enjoyed history, camping, was an avid reader, loved spending time with his family and was known for his sense of humor. Charles is survived by his daughter, Sylvia (Edward) Fishel of Rochester; 3 grandchildren, Rebecca Joy (David) Orfei, Mary Elizabeth (David) Lorenz, David Edward Fishel; 2 great-grandchildren, Sylvia Claire Lorenz, Greta Elizabeth Lorenz; brother, Jim Kennedy of Scott City, KS; sisters, Mary Lou Oeser of Scott City, KS, S. Joan (Scott) Showalter of Garden City, KS, Barbara Kennedy-Drew of Garden City, KS and a host of other family and friends. Charles was preceded in death by his loving wife, Maxine; parents; 4 brothers and 1 sister. A memorial service will be held 10:30am, March 30, 2012 at Bethany United Methodist Church, 1835 19th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN 55901 with The Rev. Dr. Wesley J. Gabel officiating. Inurnment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mayo Foundation for Cancer and Crohn's Disease Research, Department of Development Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905 or to Bethany United Methodist Church. The family wishes to thank the kind and caring people at Mayo Clinic, Veterans Services, Home Care Service Agencies and The Homestead for their compassionate care for Charles. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN. (507) 289-3600 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com