Harold Vincent Kennedy, Jr.

June 21, 1945 - December 24, 2021

Harold Vincent Kennedy, Jr., 76, a resident of Fort Myers, FL, formerly of Darien, CT, passed away Friday, December 24, 2021 in Fort Myers. He was born June 21, 1945 in White Plains, NY to Harold and Madeleine Kennedy, Sr., now deceased.

Hank graduated Scarsdale High School, Class of 1963, where he captained the Varsity Basketball Team. He went on to graduate Boston College, Class of 1967, with a major in Finance and was a member of the Alpha Kappa Psi Fraternity. Hank’s love of basketball translated to a lifelong passion for college basketball and the NCAA Playoffs (March Madness) in particular.

Hank was an accomplished Publisher for 45 years, first as President of the Professional Technical Division at Prentice Hall, then as President of the College Division at Macmillan and finally as President and Publisher at AMACOM Books at the American Management Association. Hank often reflected on how fortunate he felt to be in the publishing industry. Hank was an enthusiastic and lifelong friend, mentor and colleague. It was in Hank’s DNA to want to help in any way that he could. Many have taken the time to send their reflections on Hank’s impact upon their lives. I have taken the liberty of quoting one that captures the thoughts of all. “Hank was an exceptional man. His optimism and vitality were defining characteristics, along with his incisive intelligence and his easy going sense of humor. He had a kind word for everybody, and he cared deeply for his friends. Over the years, I was on the receiving end of his generosity whenever I asked for help or advice…..Hank not only taught me how to think like an editor and a manager, but also how do deal with people and setbacks.” In retirement Hank loved to spend time with his grandchildren, fly fish, boat, play cards and bocce, enjoy the beach, read, garden and raise wild birds (a statement we never let him live down:-) There was nothing better than seeing Hank’s joy and contentment while fly fishing or catching that Hank mischievous grin when he headed off to play cards with the boys. Hank was a member of the Larchmont NY Yacht Club and a member of The Resurrection Catholic Church in Fort Myers. Hank Kennedy was a man of character with a compassionate heart. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, to his friends and to his colleagues.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Susan Kennedy of Fort Myers; two loving children, Douglas Kennedy (Tracie) of Naples, FL, and Meredith Antonelli (Rob) of Bradenton, FL; sister, Claire Keen (David) of Fort Myers: six grandchildren, Ronan, Hudson, Reese, Madeleine, Avery, and Hayden; a sister-in-law, Rosemary Perley Kwauk, a brother-inlaw, Edward Perley, a sister-in-law, Althea Garner Perley as well as his loving niece, Althea and nephews Teddy (Erin), Timmy, Harrison and Peter.

There are two Celebration of Life Services planned for Hank – All are invited

1. A Catholic Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Thursday, January 27, 2022 at The Resurrection Catholic Church, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Ft Myers, FL 33919.

2. A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM Friday, January 28, 2022 at Chapel By The Sea, 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, FL 33924 with Reverend Larry Marshall officiating.

Memorial Contributions in memory of Harold Vincent Kennedy, Jr., are suggested to Hope Hospice, 9470 Healthpark Circle, Ft Myers, FL 33908.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Guestbook

  1. George Minnich Jan 12, 2022 at 4:26 pm

    So sorry for your loss Susie. This picture captures his ever present smile and love of life.

  2. Marilyn & Marc Schultz Jan 12, 2022 at 6:43 pm

    The tribute of Hank’s life was wonderful Susie. A celebration of life that was completely fulfilled with accomplishment, happiness, and much love. To all who came to really know Hank, he was always admired, and loved.
    Marilyn and I were honored to know Hank as a friend because no friend was more loyal, caring, and compassionate than Hank.
    He will be profoundly missed but his loving memories will continue to live on in our hearts. RIP Hank.

  3. Chuck & Linda Johns Jan 12, 2022 at 7:23 pm

    Susan,
    Sending our sincere sympathy and concurring with the admiration for his special positives. We valued you as neighbors and Chuck has great memories of his card playing and fishing prowess.
    We’ll miss Hank and our good times together.

  4. Gretchen Van Hassel Jan 13, 2022 at 8:13 am

    Dear Kennedy Family,
    We are so sorry for your loss and want you to know that we send our sincere condolences.
    It was great to read about Hank’s life of accomplishments filled with the love of his family and friends.
    May his memories bring you comfort and joy.
    The Van Hassel Family,
    Gretchen, Joe, Steve & Rachel

  5. Gretchen Van Hassel Jan 13, 2022 at 9:13 am

    Dear Kennedy Family,
    We are so sorry for your loss and want you to know that we send our sincere condolences.
    It was great to read about Hank’s life of accomplishments filled with the love of his family and friends.
    May his memories bring you comfort and joy.
    The Van Hassel Family,
    Gretchen, Joe, Steve & Rachel

  6. Tyson mcnamara Jan 14, 2022 at 11:39 pm

    God what a good man he raised I’m so honored to have a great friend that is genuine an real god bless your papa

  7. Skip and Kim Page Mar 20, 2022 at 9:48 am

    It is with great sadness we learned of Hanks passing. Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs.

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