This Book of Memories memorial website is designed to be a permanent tribute paying tribute to the life and memory of Edward Kennedy. It allows family and friends a place to re-visit, interact with each other, share and enhance this tribute for future generations. We are both pleased and proud to provide the Book of Memories to the families of our community.

Thank you.

Cancel
Select Candle

Obituary for Edward C. Kennedy Sr.

WATERVLIET - SFC Edward C. Kennedy, Sr., 70, died peacefully in his Watervliet, NY home on December 18, 2017, surrounded by his family, after a courageous 10-year battle with lung cancer.
Edward was born on January 4, 1947 in Troy, New York to William G. and Kathleen (Martin) Kennedy. After graduating from Keveny Memorial Academy in Cohoes, NY in 1966, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, from which where he honorably served for eight years. Thereafter, he enlisted in the Army National Guard of New York, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 1993. During his time with the Air Force, Edward served his country in the Vietnam War, deployed to both Vietnam and the Panama Canal Zone. While stationed in Panama, he met and married the love of his life, Maria (Colindres), who he lovingly referred to as Jean. After his retirement from the Armed Forces, Edward eventually went on to work as the Librarian of the Albany County Correctional Facility until his retirement in 2011.
After his retirement, Edward spent his final years doting on his three grandchildren - Joey, Tommy, and Kennedy. He committed his days to ensuring his grandchildren’s eternal happiness. This included simple walks around the neighborhood and daily trips to the park, library, Schuyler Bakery or McDonalds. He especially enjoyed taking the kids on shopping trips and finding things they could do together. He will always be known to them as Papa.
Edward was an active member of the Watervliet Knights of Columbus Council #198. The Knights of Columbus was an important part of his life and he was dedicated to serving in many positions within the organization. He most recently served as the State Treasurer for New York State. During his career with the Knights of Columbus he made several long-lasting friendships.
Edward was a loving husband and father, and a devoted Papa to his grandchildren. He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Maria; his sons, Luis Castillo (Magaly), of Panama, and Edward C. Kennedy, Jr. (Rebekah), of Colonie; his daughter, Jamileth (Jamie) Skumurski (Joseph), of Brunswick; and his cherished grandchildren; Joseph, Thomas and Kennedy. He is also survived by his devoted sisters, Sherry Kennedy of Utica, New York, Marilyn Burkstrand (James) of Arizona, Lourdes Daley (John) of Virginia, Mavourneen Roy of Virginia and Erin Zumpano (Salvatore) of Cold Brook, New York; as well as by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He is preceded in death by his parents William G. and Kathleen (Martin) Kennedy Sr and his three siblings – his sister, Kathleen Connors, and his brothers, William G. Kennedy, Jr., and J. Martin Kennedy.
The family would like to thank Dr. Charles Weissman, Justine, and the nurses and staff at New York Oncology Hematology for their wonderful care.
Calling hours will take place at Parker Brothers Memorial Funeral Home, Watervliet, New York on December 27, 2017, from 4:00 to 7:00pm. The funeral Mass will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Church, Watervliet, New York, on December 28, 2017, at 10:00am, with the burial immediately following at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. The Mass will be officiated by Father Don Rutherford. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Edward's life. Funeral arrangements are provided by Parker Brothers Memorial Funeral Home. Flowers may be sent to Parker Brothers Memorial Funeral Home. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the American Cancer Society. Prayers, condolences and memories may be sent to www.parkerbrosmemorial.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward C. Kennedy Sr., please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Order Flowers

Affiliations


Air Force

Air Force Longevity Service Award

Armed Forces Reserve Medal

Army Commendation Medal

Army Overseas Service Ribbon

Army Service Ribbon

Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal

Crucifix

Good Conduct Medal

NCO Professional Development Ribbon

Knights of Columbus 4th Degree

Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree

National Defense Service Medal

US Army

Vietnam Campaign Medal
Recently Shared Condolences
Recently Shared Stories
Recently Shared Photos