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Timothy P. Kennedy, executive chef

December 15, 2020

Timothy P. Kennedy, 79, of Rehoboth Beach passed away at Select Specialty Hospital of Wilmington Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020. 

He was born to Thomas J. and Helen (McKeon) Kennedy May 5, 1941, in Holyoke, Mass. Tim graduated from South Hadley Falls High School in 1959 and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in New Haven, Conn., in 1964. He married J. Elaine (Grady) Kennedy Aug. 29, 1964. Tim worked as executive chef at many resorts and restaurants along the East Coast, settling in Delaware. Culinary arts was his passion, and he wanted to show his love to a new generation. This led him to teach culinary arts at Bancroft Middle School and Howard Career Center for 27 years. While teaching school, he also ran a successful catering business for over 15 years. Tim received many awards and accolades in his years teaching and retired to the beach in 2001.

Tim is survived by his wife, Elaine; his sons, Michael J. Kennedy (Amy B. Renne) of Two Harbors, Minn., and Kevin P. Kennedy (Moira M. Kennedy) of Centennial, Colo.; his two grandsons, Otto P. Kennedy and Gavin M. Kennedy of Centennial; his granddogs Izzy and North in Minnesota and Penny and Bella in Colorado; his sisters, Ellen Nolan (Richard) of South Hadley, and Carolyn Powers (Donald) of South Hadley; and brother Thomas J. Kennedy (Susan) of Newark. Tim was preceded in death by his parents Thomas J. and Helen M. Kennedy.

Tim was an avid golfer who cherished a good game with friends and family, and always looked forward to participating in the "Kennedy Dollar" Golf Tournament. His love passed down to both of his sons, who competed against him in these tournaments. He was also a huge football fan, holding season tickets for the University of Delaware Fighting Blue Hens football for over 25 years, and cheering his Philadelphia Eagles at every opportunity. 

Tim traveled the world with his wife and was so proud of his many trips. There were many memories in his travels, but two were very special to him, both times when he took the entire family.  The Africa trip for his 50th wedding anniversary, and the 2018 trip to Australia and New Zealand. He was a curious traveler, reading everything he could about the area's history, often leaving Elaine with a book on a bench while he read everything in the museum! Tim enjoyed traveling off the beaten path, which allowed him to gain a newfound perspective on the local cultures. He enjoyed sampling the local foods and going to markets.

A memorial Mass will be held at a later date out of health and safety concerns for friends and family due to the COVID-19 crisis. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Edmond Church, P O Box 646, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971-0646.

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