Obituary of Kenneth J. McKenna

Colonie - Kenneth J. McKenna, Sr “Poppy”, 74 of Colonie died Monday, August 7, 2017 surrounded by and in the arms of his loving family.  Born February 26, 1943 in Albany, NY he was the son of the late Kenneth F. McKenna and Maurine Snow.   He married the love of his life and childhood sweetheart, Frances C. McKenna in 1963. Married for over 50 years, he loved and cared for her until her death in 2006.   He was an ironworker for Local # 12, Albany, NY and the owner of P.M. Connelly Inc. until his retirement. 

He was the cherished father of Johna McKenna-Mantica of Colonie, Kenneth McKenna of La Paz Mexico, Timothy McKenna of Colonie and Colleen McKenna of Troy; beloved father-in-law to Jamie Mantica and Marianne McKenna; most cherished Poppy to Jamie, Caitlin, Taylor and Alexandra McKenna-Mantica, Kenny, Emily and Kasey McKenna, and Devin and McKenna Pritchard; brother of Patrick McKenna and the late Carlton Guston; godfather and special uncle to Clarice Bouck, uncle to Jere and Suzette Gaul, Shawn and Robin McKenna.

An avid NY Mets and Jets fan, he enjoyed the horses, good food, a good bottle of wine and his beloved dog, Gus but the biggest joy of his life was his grandchildren.  He had a special bond and relationship with each of them.  He was a great dad but an even greater Poppy, always ready to share a great story and cook them a great meal, nothing meant more to him.

Kenneth’s family would like to thank the doctors and staff, especially Dr. Scott Beegle at Albany Medical Center ICU for their compassion and support through a very difficult time.  

Family and friends are invited to call at the Reilly and Son Funeral Home, Colonie on Thurday, August 10th from 4-7pm.  All other services will be private.

Donations can be made in Kenneth’s memory to the American Heart Association,  4 Atrium Dr., Albany NY 12205 or the Alzheimers Association, 85 Watervliet Ave., Albany NY 12206.