W. Vernon "Bud" Kennedy Obituary (1929

W. Vernon "Bud" Kennedy, 91, passed away on Friday, July 9, 2021 at his home. Bud was born on July 13, 1929 in Beaver Falls to the late William V. and Abigail (Holt) Kennedy. A native of Beaver County, he grew up in Patterson and Chippewa Townships and had lived in North Sewickley Township since 1956. He met the love of his life and his best and everlasting friend, Helen Spickerman at Geneva College. They were married on October 18, 1952 and have been graced ever since with a great family and the opportunity to share their many interests including travel, biking, swimming, walking, tennis, social and community activities including Meals on Wheels and Boy Scouts, and most of all, the joy of nearly always being with each other along the road of life. He was preceded in death by his sister, Wilda Jean Frew and a grandson, Christopher Dean. In addition to his wife, Helen he is survived by a son, Michael (Kim) Kennedy of Ellwood City; a daughter, Jamie (Michael) Dean of Pendleton, SC; grandchildren, Erin (Daniel) Frankel, Jessica (Matthew) Bergfelt, Zachary Kennedy, and Kirsten Dean; great-grandchildren, Chloe and Kenzie Bergfelt. Also surviving is his loving niece, Jo (Jim) Rex of Tucson, AZ and a special nephew, Michael (Debbie) Frew of Port Wentworth, GA. Bud graduated from Beaver Falls HS (1948) and Geneva College (1952), serving in the Army before beginning his career as a municipal planning consultant. A certified member of the American Institute of Planners, he worked for several regional firms before setting up a private office with Helen in their home, guiding many communities throughout the region in the adoption of progressive master plans and zoning and related ordinances. He had a great love of history, especially in visiting the homes of United States presidents, and was active for many years in the former College Hill Presbyterian Church. Friends will be received Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. until the Memorial Service at 3:00 p.m. in the HILL AND KUNSELMAN FUNERAL HOME, www.hillandkunselman.com , 3801 Fourth Avenue, College Hill, Beaver Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your favorite charity in his memory. Bud's family wishes to thank the hospice nurses of VITAS for their compassionate care.