James R. Kennard

James R. Kennard of West Grove, Pennsylvania died peacefully, surrounded by his family, at his home on Sunday, January 28, 2024. Jim was 87 years old. Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was the son of Harry and Catherine (Cleveland) Kennard. He was the brother of Timothy, who predeceased him; and he is survived by his sister Margaret Erpelding (Joe).
He was the husband and best friend of Noreen (Neale) Kennard. During their marriage of more than 66 years, his greatest joy has been their family, which includes children Kathleen Kennard, the late Molly Faucault (Bruce), Amy McClelland (Tom), Mary Newman, Nora Phillips (Chris) and Jenny Kennard; grandchildren Katie (Ben), Tom (Lindsey), Zack, Brian (Jess), Charlie (Emily), Sean, Patrick, Grace, Danny, Bridget, Aidan, Amanda, and Molly Cate; and great grandchildren Angel, Joey, Lily, and Nathan.
Jim began his career as a tool maker with the General Electric Company. Over the next forty years, his drive to provide for his family translated into his success. He challenged himself to attain new skills and interests as he became a corporate executive. Jim found his greatest passion in the Aerospace and Defense industry. He obtained his pilot’s license during that time and loved being among the clouds. After retirement, his entrepreneurial spirit continued in his business and consulting ventures.
Endearing to all who knew him, Jim was a wise and selfless man who approached every part of life with humility and a profound generosity of time, talent, and compassion. His intelligence, clever humor, and sense of adventure allowed him to interject such fun as he guided his children and grandchildren - and so many others - in lifelong lessons. He joyfully shared his interests in flying, golfing, skiing, boating, and making music with family and friends.
Above all, Jim was the heart of his family. Everything he did was for them. He kept his faith in God at the center of his life. A devoted Catholic, he and Noreen raised their children with the desire for a deep relationship with God. He loved having his grandchildren share their spiritual journeys with him.
On Thursday, February 1, 2024 Visitation will be from 10:30 - 11:45 AM with a Funeral Mass beginning at 12:00 PM at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 300 State Road, West Grove, PA 19390. A luncheon at the church will follow.
If you wish to make a contribution in Jim’s memory, his favorite charities were the National Right to Life Organization, https://www.nrlc.org/giving/ and Nemours Children’s Health, https://www.nemours.org/givingtonemours.html

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