Michael Joseph Kennedy

Michael Joseph Kennedy June 2, 1956 - November 22, 2023 It is with sadness that our family announces that Michael passed away quietly on November 22, 2023, at St. Michael's hospital, from complications arising from a sudden stroke. He was 67. Predeceased by his beloved parents, Stuart and Kathleen. much loved brother of Patrick, Maureen (John), John, Tim (Lorraine), and Kelly (John). Proud uncle to Krysti, Connor (Sara), Carly, Fergus, Owen, and Serena. Michael was born, and grew up, in Toronto. All his life, summers meant Muskoka. For decades Michael lived downtown, embracing all the social and cultural buzz the inner city had to offer. Initially, he was involved with restaurants, but eventually proved himself to be very adept with renovations. He could build or fix almost anything. Later, moving back home with his parents, for what was originally going to be a temporary stay, he eventually ended up becoming the primary caregiver for his father and mother. This went on for many years, both in Scarborough and in Muskoka. He was truly a blessing for both of them.....and for the rest of the family. In his last years, he had an apartment at Victoria Park and Lawrence where he became the local school crossing guard. He loved his job and all the kids, the teachers, and the parents. He looked out for all of them, and they, for him, in turn. He still kept his finger in renos, often working with his brother-in-law, John Moore. He was happy about his life. He loved games, crosswords, cooking, books & videos from the library, music (especially John Prine), CBC radio, beer & combustibles......and most of all, Muskoka. Always a champion for bicycles, he even did all his own repairs. He was popular with women and had many girlfriends over the years. When those connections transitioned, he often managed to keep the friendships alive. That was Michael's character. Independent and private, he was a loner who cared about people. He always gave anything he loved away, to someone else who might love it as much. In closing, we are particularly indebted to some very amazing caregivers who over the course of four hospitals in almost three months, helped to lighten the burden for both Michael and all of us. You are the champions. Private cremation. Celebration of life to be announced in the new year. Michael has not disappeared. we are all quite sure he will still race everyone to the top of the hill.....Tabor Hill, Woodpecker Hill, the hill behind Margueritte's, the hill from Lake Rousseau to the cottage...... and once again, he will win. He's at the top, waving to us all down below. Out of breath, tears in our eyes, we're still making the long climb up to join him.