Kennedy Jada

A memorial for Kennedy Tombe Jada, 68 of Rochester, MN will be held at 2:00pm, December 29, 2023, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes in Rochester, Minnesota. Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00pm. The family has requested a private interment following the visitation.

Kennedy Tombe Jada, was born on August 31, 1955 to Tombe and Igale. He was born in Juba, South Sudan.

Throughout his younger years, Kennedy was heavily involved in the South Sudanese war for independence. He was admired by his fellow soldiers and served as a Captain in charge of his own platoon. As the war became increasingly violent, Kennedy became targeted by the opposing regime and was forced to flee his country. He found refuge in French controlled Uganda, and was later able to relocate as a refugee to the Accra area in Ghana.

Following his establishment in Ghana, he was introduced and wed to Ms. Patricia Tetteh in Odumase Krobo, Ghana. Once together, the couple made the difficult decision to immigrate to the United States, first establishing in Jacksonville, Florida before relocating to Rochester, Minnesota to be closer to members of the Sudanese Community. Together they welcomed two sons.

Kennedy passed away on December 22, 2023, at Rochester East Health Services Nursing Home in Rochester, Minnesota after a hard-fought battle with esophageal cancer.

Throughout his life, Kennedy was involved in the manufacturing industry. Having worked for Dairy Farmers of America (Zumbrota, MN) for most of his career, later finding additional work at Hormel (Austin, MN), before retiring to Grand Forks, North Dakota. Following his retirement, he later returned to Rochester, MN due to ongoing health concerns and to be closer to family.

Kennedy was an avid history buff and enjoyed reading and learning about international news. He could always be found telling stories about his adventures in his homeland, watching the latest CNN reports, and enjoyed speaking of current events.

Kennedy loved being a father and could be found speaking highly of his 3 children to anyone who would listen. He prioritized the happiness of his children, often sacrificing himself to ensure they were happy and healthy. Kennedy was an avid phone caller, always checking in with others and speaking for hours about his family, interests, and anything new.

Kennedy is survived by his children, Peace Tetteh of Buffalo, MN, Peter (Tasha) Jada of Rochester, MN, and Emmanuel (Claire) Jada of Rochester, MN; and grandchildren, Constance, Soraya, and Amarah. He is also survived by his brothers, nieces, and nephews.

Please direct any memorials or flowers to the family in memory of Kennedy Jada.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Jada family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.