Donald "Deke" Kennedy

Donald “Deke” Kennedy died October 11, 2026 at his home in North Syracuse. He was born in Syracuse NY, June 18, 1931 to Michael and Charlotte Kennedy. He grew up in Eastwood where he was a linebacker on the Eastwood Bears football team and made all city tackle.

He was employed by Western Electric for 28 years and was a bartender in North Syracuse for 41 years. He brought his love of Irish Music to his customers with whom he formed lasting friendships.

He served in the US Air Force as a cryptographer during the Korean War. He did a New York Times crossword puzzle every day, followed the Chicago White Sox since childhood and never forgot a name.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; daughters, Christy Kennedy of Liverpool NY, Katharine (Fred) Scott of Phoenix NY; and a son, Dennis of Oswego; grandsons, Bryan and Terrence Lawson. He was predeceased by his parents; a son, Michael; and a brother, David.

Funeral Services will be 1:00pm, Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Faith Journey United Methodist Church, 8396 Morgan Road, Clay NY.

Contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

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