We Remember
KENNEDY, John Vernon “Vern”
August 4, 1939 — July 19, 2025
It is with love and sadness that we announce the passing of John Vernon Kennedy, who died peacefully at home in Kelowna, British Columbia, on July 19, 2025, at the age of 85. His beloved wife, Eileen Judith Kennedy (née Kristie), was by his side.
Born to Delia (née Hammill) and Clarence Kennedy in Dunrobin, Ontario, Vern grew up with a love of learning that shaped the course of his life. A graduate of Queen’s University (M.Sc.), he pursued a distinguished career in metallurgical engineering, working on projects across Canada and on several long-term postings in Malaysia, China, Korea, and Japan. He approached every challenge with a meticulous eye for detail and skillful problem-solving as a quality assurance expert.
Outside of work, Vern found joy on the golf course—particularly at Gallagher’s Canyon—where he was a devoted player until his late 70s. He generously gave his time for many years to strata boards in Kitsilano and Gallagher’s Canyon, and to mental health charities in Kelowna, embodying the values of service and compassion.
Vern and Eileen built a loving home and raised their family in Beaconsfield, Quebec, and then in Oakville, Ontario, before retiring to Vancouver and later Kelowna. A devoted father and grandfather, Vern found great pride and comfort in the lives of his children, Vernon Scott (Petra), Kristie Lorelle, and Kathryn Leigh (Jeff); and his grandchildren, Robert Scott Kennedy, Ashley Kennedy, Liam Kennedy, Julian Kennedy Fernback, and Holly Rowan Fernback, who will carry his memory forward. He was predeceased by his only sister, Sheila Woodman.
Blessed with good health, Vern retired early and travelled extensively with Eileen, enjoying frequent road trips through Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the southwestern United States. In later years, they spent many happy times together, driving along the Pacific Northwest coast and holidaying in Southern California.
An intellectual in the truest sense, Vern had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge across many subjects. His favourite pastimes included solving crosswords and reading. On Sundays, he delighted in making scrumptious Belgian-style waffles for family and friends. Vern was a good friend to his nearby neighbours over his 27 years in Gallagher’s Canyon.
His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped and the memories we share. Vern will be profoundly missed.
The private family burial will take place on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 12:00 pm, at Lakeview Memorial Gardens.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
Service
Monday, July 28, 2025, at 11:00 am
Location
Lakeview Memorial Gardens


Our Sincerest sympathy goes out to Eileen and her family on the passing of her dear husband, Vern. He will be greatly missed. Tom and Lorraine.
I am so sorry to hear this news of the passing of Vern, my heart goes out to you Eileen and your family.
Very sorry to hear of your loss to my cousin Eileen and her family. Vern was a gentle giant and was kind as well. He was well liked by all our family members. He will be missed. I will keep Eileen and family in my prayers. Juliana McConnell first cousin to Eileen Kennedy
My sincere condolences to the family for the loss of a fine gentleman; a father, a husband, a friend. Yet although there is sadness, there is also a greatfulness for those who have had the privilege of having such a man in their lives. May Vern’s genuine love remain in their hearts.
With love and Kindness,
Sonia
So sorry to hear this news. We met Vern after his volunteer time was over at Gallaghers, but I could tell by his extensive knowledge of the waste water treatment plant that he was well read, hard working and very committed to his community. Thinking of you Eileen and family and sending our sincere condolences during this difficult time.
Natalie Shorten and Tim Guthrie