William Robert Kennedy

William R. "Bill" Kennedy, age 91, surrounded by his loving children joined his Heavenly Father on Monday, November 15, 2010. Bill was born June 25, 1919 to James John and Margaret (Doyle) Kennedy in Canton, Ohio. He was born into a family of seven children and was very proud of his Irish heritage. It was Bill's mother, Margaret, who was his greatest champion. He often credited her examples and encouragement as instrumental to his success. Bill graduated from Scott High School where he was involved in athletics, including wrestling and baseball. Following high school Bill proudly served his country as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy, where he trained at Norfolk, Virginia and also at the Great Lakes Naval Station in Chicago. Bill was contacted by the Honor Flight Network in Washington D.C. to make the trek honoring America's veterans but was unable to attend due to health reasons.

Following the time spent in the U.S. Navy, Bill graduated from The University of Toledo College of Law in 1951. For over 45 years he worked as an attorney. For a great part of his career he worked for Louisville Title Company. Bill specialized in real estate law at the Spitzer Building in downtown Toledo. Serving his country in the U.S. Navy, and his law practice were among his treasured accomplishments. He was a past member of the Toledo Bar Association and during the 1970's he was involved in local politics. In his spare time he enjoyed playing ping-pong, and he won numerous gold medals in the Senior Olympics for his performances. He also enjoyed shooting pool. Bill supported the local Alcoholics Anonymous organization, attended regular meetings, and contributed to others as a personal mentor.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Merrily C. (Samuel) Leonard, Linda Lee (James) King, Kristin R. Huber, Kevin W. Kennedy and Casey R. (Angela) Kennedy; eleven grandchildren ; fourteen great-grandchildren; brother, Patrick Kennedy and sister, Margaret Dorn.

The family will receive guests Thursday from 4-7:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300). Funeral Services will begin Friday at 11:30 a.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Lynn O'Dell officiating. Interment will follow in Toledo Memorial Park where full military honors will be rendered.

Bill's family would like to especially thank The Henderson House, who knew him as "Billium," for the love and warmth they provided to Bill; also to Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their diligent care and support.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to The Henderson House, 5719 Ryewyck Dr., Toledo, Ohio 43614, where Bill was a resident for the past few years and received outstanding love and care.