Kennedy, Harry Lee 1944-2020

KENNEDY, HENDRIX, EDSON

Posted By: Volunteer Transcriber
Date: 7/13/2021 at 21:35:34

Harry Lee Kennedy
January 14, 1944 - December 5, 2020

Harry Lee Kennedy, 76, passed away on December 4, 2020 at his home in Colfax, IA
Harry was born to Russell Harry and Victoria Alberta Kennedy on January 14, 1944 in Berryton, Kansas. Harry attended his early education in a one roomed school house and went on to graduate high school which he paid for himself by working in the school cafeteria. Harry went on to further his education by getting his journeyman machinist certificate to become a welder.

Due to the health risks associated with welding at the time, Harry hung up his welding hat and served with the army in Kansas as a Spec 6, teaching in field communications and radio repair. Towards the end of his service he looked at new prospects and decided on a career with the railroad.

Harry would quickly work his way up from fireman to engineer for the Chicago Northwestern (later the Union Pacific) and for the next 25 years he would, as he would put it, "just blow the whistle and wave at the kids". While on the railroad, he moved where ever the work would take him and on his adventures, found his first love Sandra Hendrix (Sam).

While Harry was working on the railroad he helped his wife pursue a career in billiards. They traveled the country together, while always making time for their nieces and nephews. Eventually Harry moved from Kansas, to Missouri, to his final residence in Iowa.

In Colfax, Iowa Harry retired from the railroad and made a living working for Monroe Table company in Colfax. Shortly after starting for the company, Harry and Sam welcomed their daughter, Hawk Kennedy. Harry would then go on to support Sam through school so she could fulfill her passion for nursing. After ten years building tables, Harry decided to retire and be a full time dad to his little girl.

Throughout his life, what he's most known for by everyone that knew him, Harry made music. He started at a young age learning the piano and guitar from his mom, who was a concert pianist and the town's music teacher. From there his passion continued to flourish and he would later meet his mentor Lonnie Hoppers who introduced the Dobro to Harry. That would later become his signature instrument and Harry would often credit a lot of his success, and knowledge, to Lonnie, who's relationship meant a lot to Harry.
Harry has played with several bands over the years, always taking the time to listen to build his skill and sometimes even teach and mentor others. He attended many music festivals and shows, always bringing Hawk along.

Later in his life he separated from his wife Sam, but remained close with her until she passed from this earth.

When one door closes, another one opens. Harry ended up meeting the love of his life Linda Edson (Red). Red and Harry would go on to travel the country together, attend family gatherings, going to Harry's shows, of course spending quality time together and talking on the phone daily.

Harry spent the remainder of his life retired, spending some time picking with friends, talking or visiting with friends and honorary family whenever they would call or stop by, and always making time for his ladies, Hawk and Red.

Harry was preceded in death by his two brothers, best friend Dale, parents Russell and Bert, his aunt Mabelle Kennedy (Sissy), his wife Sam, and many beloved friends as well as furry friends.

Those left to honor his memory include his daughter Hawk, life partner Red, many honorary children and grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and many beloved friends and band mates.

No services are planned at this time. Condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com ~ The Coburn Funeral Home, Newton, Iowa 05 Dec 2020.