Obituary of Charles H. Kenney

Charles H. Kenney GENEVA - Charles H. Kenney, 94, passed away peacefully Tues. (March 15, 2011) at Geneva General Hospital. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Mon. (March 21) at the Trinity Church, 520 S. Main St., Geneva. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tues. (March 22) at the church. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery. Contributions may be directed to the charity of one's choice. Charles Henry Kenney, Sr. was born on Nov. 7, 1916 in Geneva, NY. He was the sixth child born to the union of the late Herman and Josephine (LaPeon) Kenney. Charles grew up in a family surrounded by love and encouragement to develop to the fullest. He learned the importance of hard work and responsibility from his father. His strong moral character and Christian values were instilled in him by his mother. Charles graduated from Geneva High School in 1935, distinguishing himself in drama and basketball. He attended Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, majoring in English and Dramatic Arts. Charles, with his excellent leadership skills, took a position at the Columbia Rope Factory in Auburn, NY, which ultimately landed him the position of superintendent. His love of sports and his competitive edge led him to golf at a very young age. Charles captured the Geneva Country Club trophy as the 'outstanding player of the year.' He also was an active member of the Geneva Housing Authority, treasurer of the Sports Hall of Fame and one of the first African Americans to serve on the Geneva Board of Education. In addition, and in keeping with his early training, he played an active part at Trinity Church by teaching Sunday school and committing to lay reading. He is survived by his current wife, Joyce Johnson Kenney. Charles leaves to cherish his memory, a brother, John Kenney; daughters, Charleen (Noah) Young, Margaret (Roger) Williams, Bonnie (Keith) Aten, Doris (Thomas) Myers and Edna Johnson; son, Rufus (Kristin) Johnson. Also cherishing his memory are his grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Of special note and interest was his life-long relationship with his best friend and brother-in-law, Merritt Fletcher of Auburn, NY, who will miss the card games they played so enthusiastically. Charles was preceded in death by his first wife, Lillie Post Kenney and two sons, Charles, Jr. and Russell.