Obituary: Richard “Dick” James Kennedy, 76, of Stratford

STRATFORD, CT - (From Dennis & D'Arcy Funeral Home) Richard “Dick” James Kennedy, age 76, of Stratford passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 4, 2021 at Bridgeport Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Sharon Reilly Kennedy.

Dick is survived by his devoted wife Sharon of 54 years, daughter Dawn Kennedy Ogrodowicz (Ron) of Stratford, his son Brett Kennedy (Kate) of Boise, ID, two cherished grandchildren Amanda and Lauren, a sister Caroline Voorhees (David) of Florida, two nieces, a nephew, his pet dog Homer and many friends.

Born in Bridgeport on August 19, 1945 he was the son of the late James and Eileen Farmer Kennedy. On December 17,1966 Dick married his lifelong love and best friend. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving honorably in the United States Navy.

He proudly served aboard the USS Enterprise and received the following commendations, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and a Navy Unit Commendation.

Dick’s service laid the foundation for his lifetime commitment to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (“VFW”) where he served for many years as the Commander of Post 9460 and at the State level as District Commander for District 1 in Connecticut.

He was very proud to participate in many ceremonies at Academy Hill and Stratford’s schools to recognize and acknowledge important days like Veterans Day and Memorial Day.

In addition to his dedication to veterans locally, he served as a member of the American Legion in Block Island, RI and enjoyed representing their organization in many fourth of July ceremonies and festivities.

Dick’s naval service landed him in San Diego, CA where his love of the San Diego Chargers began. A devoted sports fan, you could always find him displaying the logo of the Chargers, Yankees, Islanders or Sound Tigers.

But no sports were as important to him as those of his children and grandchildren. He was committed to making every game possible and is famous for his often heard phrase, “that’s my granddaughter”.

As a long-time resident of Lordship, Dick spent many years serving the Lordship Father’s Club. He also served as a mentor to students through the Stratford School system, often following his mentee from elementary through high school.

Dick could be found passing out boxes of Girl Scout cookies, Poppies on Memorial Day, pizza on Vicki Soto race day or anywhere he could lend a helping hand.

He truly embodied a life of service.

Friends may greet his family on Sunday, September 12, 2021 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Dennis & D'Arcy - Abriola & Kelemen Funeral Home, 2611 Main St. Stratford CT 06615 with military honors concluding the service.

Immediately following visitation hours, there will be a Celebration of Life at the VFW Post 9460, 100 Veterans Blvd, Stratford, CT where the family invites friends to honor and toast Dick’s memory. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post 9460, 100 Veterans Blvd. Stratford CT 06615. To offer online condolences and share memories please visit http://www.dennisanddarcy.com.