Patrick “Pat”James Kennelly, lifelong resident of the South Side of Chicago, and lifelong Chicago Bears fan, passed away peacefully on Christmas evening. He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Jeannie Kennelly, his brother Billy, and his loving and endlessly patient wife Carol Ann (nee Kammerer). He leaves behind two daughters, Jeannie and Megan, who, although they got exasperated with him, loved him fiercely. He also leaves behind two sons-in-law, Derek and Vince, who he welcomed like his own sons. Pat was overjoyed to become a grandfather, and was the proudest Papa to Sean, Dillon, and Julie. He also leaves behind his two loving sisters, Mary Jean (the late Jerry) Nosek, Jean (Dave) Alicz, his brother Danny (Rachael), and his Godmother, Aunt Joan Kriz, whom he loved to the ends of the earth. Pat also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.
Pat was in the Navy for four years, and saw action in Vietnam as a MMFN (Machinists Mate Striker). He was proud to have served the country he loved so very much. Pat loved "Da Bears" and watched every single game. He loved hosting family gatherings at his home. He loved to barbeque. He put too many green peppers in every recipe, and if it didn't call for green peppers, he usually added them anyway. He made the best Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. He loved animals and small children, and they loved him right back. He loved road trips to the Wisconsin Dells and Branson, Missouri. He had an annual 4th of July party and set off more fireworks than most small towns. Pat loved going on camping and fishing trips with his friends, including his brother-in-law Jerry, who was probably the best friend he ever had. Everyone who came into his life became a part of his extended family. Pat loved his family and friends beyond measure.
Over the last few years, as his health issues worsened, Pat spent a lot of time receiving care from the incredible staff at Hines VA Hospital in Hines. Despite usually being there in less than ideal circumstances, he managed to make friends with many of the doctors, nurses, CNAs, and support staff. They provided him with exceptional care, and his family will never forget the professional and loving care they gave him.
After Carol Ann passed, he was never quite the same. He still enjoyed being with his family, but missed her every day. Christmas was Carol's favorite holiday. This Christmas, Jeannie and Megan spent the day with Pat, listening to his favorite music and talking. And then Pat decided to go spend the rest of the holiday with the love of his life. As much as we will miss him, we know he's at peace.
Services will be held at CENTRAL CHAPEL, 6158 S. Central Ave., Chicago, IL, where family and friends will gather on Wednesday, December 29, 2021 from 3 to 8 p.m.. Funeral Service Thursday, December 30, 2021 at 10 a.m. Burial Mount Auburn Cemetery. For those attending services, MASKS REQUIRED.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Animal Welfare League, https://animalwelfareleague.com, or Dav84Northern, 4701 Midlothian Turnpike, Suite 4, Crestwood, IL 60418 would be appreciated.
Please visit PATRICK KENNELLY BOOK OF MEMORIES. To express your thoughts or memories in the online guest book, visit www.chapelc.com or www.facebook.com/centralchapel. Info., 773 581 9000.