Obituary of Sam Kennedy

Samuel George Kennedy, "Sam”, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2015 at the Foyer d’Youville in Gravelbourg, SK at the age of 88. Sam was born on October 5, 1926, in St. Boswells, SK, to John and Elizabeth (nee Temple) Kennedy. He grew up on the Kennedy family farm with his 6 siblings, and attended elementary and high school in St. Boswells. After his schooling Sam worked on the farm with his Dad and brother. He was proud to purchase his own land in the early 50’s and to begin in earnest his chosen path as a farmer. Eventually the farm grew and in October of 1967 he married Beverley Hawkins. Together they farmed, ranched and raised four sons. Sam loved pampering his cows and giving pet names to his favorites. He was active in the community as a board member for the Wiwa Creek Water Association, receiving a long service award for 40 years of service. Sam was also an avid sportsman, curling and playing ball for many years. He enjoyed watching sporting events such as hockey and football and did some coaching as the boys were growing up. He was known for his love of music—singing, playing the guitar and listening to the older hymns and gospel music that he enjoyed so much. Sam continued to farm and completed his 60th harvest before getting serious about retirement. In 2000, Sam and Beverley moved from the farm to Moose Jaw. They immediately met great neighbors and made many new friends in the Churches that they attended there. Sam and Beverley made regular visits out to the Shamrock District to help out on the farm. In 2009, they built a condo and their home continued to host many family get-togethers and visits. After Beverley passed away in 2010 Sam continued to live at home, even when his mobility declined. Sam was able to go for one last round on the combine this past August, and was so excited to be out in the field. Sam never complained about his troubles, and enjoyed every day. He had a determined work ethic and focused on integrity. His strong faith in God never wavered and this assertion sustained and carried him always. Sam is predeceased by his wife Beverley Kennedy; parents John and Elizabeth (nee Temple) Kennedy; brothers Jim Kennedy, Jack Kennedy, Charlie Kennedy; sisters Eleanor (Lawrence) Aslin, Pearl Kennedy & Grace (Ken) Chapman; father and mother-in-law Walter and Margaret Holmes; brother-in-law Les Holmes. He is survived by his loving family, son Michael (Maureen) Kennedy of Kelowna, BC, grandchildren James, Shayna (Mitch) Adams, Karsten, great granddaughter Brixtyn Adams; son Robert (Jody) Kennedy of St. Boswells, SK, grandchildren Darren (Chantel), Ian, Cameron, Kimberly; son Lyle (Jennifer) of Medicine Hat, AB, grandchildren Matthew, Tyler, Joel, Hana, Katelyn; son Larry (Liezel) Kennedy of Shamrock, SK; sisters-in-law Phyllis Kennedy of Medicine Hat, AB, Maria Kennedy of Swift Current, SK, Mary Kennedy of Moose Jaw, SK. Funeral Service was held on Saturday, January 10, 2015, at 1:00 p.m., at First Baptist Church in Moose Jaw. Officiants were Mr. Ken Muirhead and Mr. Ron Silvester. The eulogy was written by Bob Kennedy and shared by Bill Chapman. Organist was Dr. Earl Bernard. Soloist and worship leader was Mr. Michael Penner. Special music was shared by Darcy and Sharlotte Neufeld. Active pallbearers were James Kennedy, Karsten Kennedy, Mitch Adams, Darren Kennedy, Ian Kennedy, Cameron Kennedy, Matthew Kennedy, Tyler Kennedy and Joel Kennedy. Interment took place at Rosedale Cemetery, Moose Jaw. Memorial donations in memory of Sam to the Foyer d’Youville Foundation Staff Social Fund, for office chairs for the nurses at the Foyer, Box 810, Gravelbourg, SK S0H 1X0, were greatly appreciated.