Francis Michael Kennedy

Frank was born in Providence, Rhode Island on March 13, 1931 to Gladys (Howard) and Francis Kennedy. He grew up in Saugus, Massachusetts where he graduated high school in 1948. After graduating he began his career in the automobile industry as an auto mechanic and was also a reserve police officer.

Frank moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1955 where he lived for a few years before moving to the Valley. He raced cars in his younger days and was an avid fan of car racing, especially NASCAR. His hobbies included working on cars, fishing and camping and taking care of home projects. Cooking for his family was also a passion which he continued to do until his death. He constantly was creating and modifying new recipes. He was a successful car salesman in the Valley for over two decades and he retired from Don Sanderson Ford in 1996.

Diagnosed in 2003 with Prostate Cancer didn’t diminish his loving spirit, kindness or selfless act of helping raise special needs foster children. His calm and steady leadership in some chaotic times was what kept everything going.

Frank is survived by his wife Ilona (Nash) Kennedy, sister Ann Shaylor, sons John Kennedy, Jeffrey Howes, daughter Tracy Howes, grandchildren Chad Kennedy, Nicole Riddleberger, Justin Kennedy, Michael Kennedy, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and foster children. Frank was predeceased by his son Kevin Kennedy.

Should you desire, contributions may be sent to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. You can donate by going onto PCF.org.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at West Resthaven Cemetery and Funeral home at 6450 W. Northern avenue Glendale, Arizona on May 21, 2016 at 2 p.m.

REMEMBERED JOY, AN IRISH FUNERAL POEM

Don’t grieve for me, for now I am free!

I follow the plan God laid for me.

I saw His face, I heard His call,

I took His hand and left it all…

I could not stay another day, to love, to laugh, to work or play;

Tasks left undone must stay that way,

And if my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joy.

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss…

Ah yes, these things I, too, shall miss.

My life’s been full, I’ve savored much;

Good times, good friends, a loved-one’s touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all to brief,

Don’t shorten yours with undue grief.

Be not burdened with tears of sorrow,

Enjoy the sunshine of the morrow.