ASHTABULA — Howard “Howie” C. Kennedy Jr., age 78, of Ashtabula, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his residence on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012, following a lingering illness. He was surrounded by his loving family and grandson.
He was born in Ashtabula, Ohio, on March 17, 1934, the son of Howard Sr. and Helen (Hietikko) Kennedy. Howard was in the U.S. Army for 12 years, serving in Korea.
He worked for the City of Ashtabula as a bus driver and had also worked with his wife managing the Willow Arms Mobile Home Park for over 30 years. In his earlier years, he drove the Sunday school bus for the Bible Baptist Church under the direction of Pastor Merle Hounshell.
He was an avid golfer, enjoyed Las Vegas and other casinos, but most of all, he loved being with his family and talking on the phone with his best friend, Augie.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Howard is survived by his wife, Janet (Huffman), whom he married on August 29, 1970 at Lake Avenue Methodist Church. He is also survived by his sons, Michael (Karen) Kennedy of North Carolina, Joseph Kennedy of Stow, Ohio and Jeff (Maureen) Hanna of California; daughters, Bridget (Don) Lute of Ringsville, Ohio, Cheryl (Mark Carr) Kennedy of Ashtabula; sisters, Kathleen Drakes of Conneaut and Bonnie McKelvey of Ashtabula; and several nieces, nephews and grandchildren.
At his request, no services will be held. Interment will be in Edgewood Cemetery.
POTTI LAKESIDE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE, 1329 Lake Ave., Ashtabula is handling arrangements.
Obituary and condolences at www.pottifuneralhome.com and starbeacon.com.
