Kevin Craig McKenna
October 8, 1955 - May 14, 2012
Kevin Craig McKenna
October 8, 1955 – May 14, 2012
The life of the party has left us forever. Kevin was tragically taken from us after a sudden illness. He was born Kevin Craig McKenna in SLC on October 8, 1955 to Ilene Causer and John P McKenna. He attended Judge Memorial Catholic High school in SLC. Kevin received a BS degree in Psychology and Sociology and a certificate in Criminology from the University of Utah.
Kevin had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He spent countless hours planning and executing his projects in the garden, kitchen and around the house and would top it off with an evening of pool-he never missed Thursday night. Never the spectator, ever the participant; Kevin lived his life with joy, laughter and passion. He loved his family with all his being, was caring and compassionate of those he served and cherished his daughter Kelly. All those who knew Kevin, felt the warmth of his embrace, the exuberance of his laughter and the charm of his wit. He was larger than life and filled us all with joy and laughter. Every day was an experience: whether rock hounding, river running, hiking, skiing, gardening, cooking, plumbing or his newest adventure with bee keeping. Kevin had a new project on every horizon. All of this energy enabled the pursuit of his three enduring passions, photography, caramel candy and spending time with his best friend and brother, Jeff.
In the early 1980s Kevin began his career in the criminal justice system. He rose from working for the Utah State Department of Corrections to his final position as Supervising United States Probation Officer for the Federal Court System. Kevin excelled in his career, receiving numerous accolades as well as the respect of his colleagues. He became one of the first agents to supervise mentally ill offenders in a specialized case load for Adult Probation and Parole. He was appointed a United States Probation Officer in 1989 and continued to serve the public by working for the United States District Court. He was instrumental in the development and implementation of therapeutic justice programs, primarily though RISE (Reentry Independence through Sustainable Effort), a Federal Drug and Mental Health Court program and one of the first in the nation for the Federal Court system. His dedication also helped to establish programs such as; DOWD, The Defendant, Offender Workforce Development program, and the UDOWD. its Utah affiliate. These programs were new to the Federal Court system and Kevin's work ethic and passion contributed to their success. His legacy will continue in the many individuals who benefit from the innovative programs to which he was an influential contributor. Kevin received awards and recognition for his hard work but what he cherished most were the relationships he gained during nearly 30 years of service.
Married Lisa Townsend, 1980, later divorced. Kevin married the love of his life Alane Fry in 2002. They had ten wonderful years filled with adventure and love. He is survived by his wife Alane; daughter Kelly: step-children Matt, Chris (Angela) and Megan Roberts; mother Ilene; siblings Rick (Sherri), Jeffrey and Courtney (Nick) Gibbs; nieces and nephews, Erin (Frank) Kayla, Sean, Morgan, Colin and Connor. Preceded in death by his father John P. McKenna. In lieu of flowers please send donations to: Moran Eye Center for Age-Related Macular Degeneration Research, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, SLC, UT 84132, Or to NDRC to help save the vanishing bees, or www.honeybeepreservation.org.
A celebration of Kevin's life will be held at the Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Saturday May 19th from 5-7 p.m.
Thank you to the IMED Shock and Trauma Unit for their tireless efforts to support Kevin and make him comfortable in his final hours. To Steve Kelly, Allan Rice and Marcus Erlich thanks for always being there for him.
The family requests that you post condolences, the best joke he ever told you, or any story you would like to share about Kevin online at www.starksfuneral.com
In Loving Memory
Jeff, I am so sorry to hear of Kevin's passing. I remember both of you well during our shared years at Judge Memorial. My thoughts are with you and your family members.
Wendy Wasescha-Caputo
Los Angeles, CA
From 4th grade to 12th grade Kevin was my classmate. In elementary school we spent hours on the bus where Kevin keep us laughing. That's what I think of when I remember Kevin was his laugh and his jokes, which most of the time were funny, depending on the color of the joke. I saw him at our 35th high school reunion a few years ago and loved hearing his laugh again. I am so sorry he has left us. My sympathies and prayers go out to his family and friends who will miss him. I will too.
Linda Volmer Auwerda
Murray, UT
Alane Jerry and I were so sorry to hear of Kevins passing. If there is anything we can do for you please let me know, i know the yorkies will miss their "daddy" as much as you all will.
Annette and Jerry Kitchin
Bountiful, ut
To Kevin's family: Kevin changed his world with strength, intelligence and fearlessness ? and a bit of laughter. He easily moved between the worlds of law/order and habilitation/inspiration in his journey between state and federal corrections. I knew him when we were young agents; then, later as we collaborated on programs such as UDOWD. His former staff and co-workers talked to me about his inspirational leadership, decency and honor ? all qualities they elected to embrace as their own. It is a legacy you can be proud of in your time of sorrow. Peace be with you. Please accept these condolences from the staff of UDC's Division of Programming.
N Huntsman
Draper, UT
Kevin was my God father, Everytime I went to Utah to visit my Dad (Steve Kelly) Kevin would cook up something wonderful and bring it over to the house. He was an excellent cook! Kevin was a wonderful man and my father's best friend. I will miss seeing him on my trips to Utah. I pray that peace and comfort will find its way into the hearts of all of those that love him and that are missing him. Rest in Peace Kevin, you will be missed! Love always - Jessica Kelly McCray
Jessica (Kelly) McCray
Denver, Co
Laughter, smiles and an all around great personality. Enjoyed working with Kevin in the federal system and he is and will be truly missed.
Kristin Shuman
Salt Lake City, Ut
God bless Kevin's family and all who love him! Remembering happy times from our highschool days!
John Payne
Hillsboro, or
I met Kevin at a training my office, the Federal Public Defender, provided last year. As part of the training, each participant divulged personal information. It was, at times, emotionally difficult. Although I only knew Kevin from this two-week long training, I recognized that he was a compassionate person and extremely giving. It was a pleasure to know him and learn from him. He will be missed.
Susan Stewart Rich
Salt Lake City, Ut
I feel honored to have known such a kind soul and proud to be able to call him a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We should all strive to make others feel as important and welcome as he did.
Craig W. Dean
Lakewood, Co
Your Beloved Kevin, always quick with a joke, gentle in heart and easy to smile...may that remembrance be a comfort now to Kevin's dear family and friends, during this time of sadness and transition.
Mikell McDonough
San Diego, Ca
Kevin McKenna never lacked for a smile, never lost his compassion for the less fortunate, never lost his faith in the perfection of his fellow man. Here was a man who lived in a state of genuine kindness every day. Many people who would have otherwise rotted in a jail cell owe their freedom to his trust, few of them ever abused that trust. The world is diminished by his absence.
Edward K. Brass
Salt Lake City, Ut
This just makes me want to cry. Ever since we were boys, I always appreciated the great senses of humor of the McKenna brothers. And as we ran into each other, every now and then over many years, I was struck by the way they held onto that spirit. It was always a pleasure to run into Kevin. So sorry for your loss.
Mike Gorrell
Salt Lake City, Ut
I hate thinking of a world without Kevin's smile, laughter and "joie de vivre"! I will never forget the time he braved the treacherous roads to make our Chritmas party when people in better cars turned back. The joke Kevin told the last time I saw him was the one I remember best; alas, it may not be appropriate to repeat here! To Alane, Kevin's family and all who loved him--I wish you peace and the warmth of great memories--
Elizabeth Walker
Park City, Ut
Kevin was easily the funniest person I have ever had the pleasure of knowing! It was truly an honor to be related to him even if only by marriage :) He will be very missed and will always be with me in my heart and in my prayers. God Bless the entire McKenna family, Andrea Hipwell and family
Andrea Hipwell
Parker, Co
We were very shocked and saddened to hear the news about Kevin. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Rick and Ann Barber
Rick and Ann Barber
nan, nan
Kevin, one of the most friendliest and open human beings I've ever met in my life! He was the kind of guy that made it easy to enter into a room and join in the conversation. Every time we spoke you knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that he was genuinely interested in what you had to say. I loved that about him! It was also always fun to see the way Kevin and Jeff interacted together. Every time I was in a room with those guys I witnessed a very keen sense of comradely, love, and friendship between the two of them! I know Kevin will be one of the first smiling faces I see again the day I punch my last ticket out of this joint! I can't wait to tell him about my new propane business, God Bless You Kevin!
Matt Schwartz
Reno, nv
Alane, I'm so very sorry for your loss. The love you and Kevin shared was very special and the time you had together will never be forgotten. May you find peace in your memories. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Fondly,
Sandy Lee
Salt Lake City, UT
Kevin McKenna was one of the finest people and probation officers I have known. It is easy to get jaded in this line of work but Kevin kept a positive, compassionate, humorous and pragmatic attitude toward those with whom he worked. He inspired others to be better people and left a proud legacy for us to consider. God bless and best wishes to his wife and family in this time of grief.
Lynn Donaldson
Salt Lake City, Ut
I have many fond and funny memories of Kevin as I worked with him at federal Probation from the time he was hired until I retired in 1999. He always maintained a positive and optimistic attitude. He usually had a very funny joke or story to share and taught me to never take life"s daily routines too seriously. In 1994 I floated the Green River with Kevin and some other Probation Officers. Kevin kept the whole trip fun and lively. Working with him was a daily pleasure. He was so proud of his daughter Kelly and brought her to work on occasion. Her visits lighted up our whole office. Kevin, thanks for the great memories and may God bless and comfort your sweet family .
Terrance Boyle
Centrerville, Ut
We have known Kevin for over 30 years through our careers in Probation and Parole. He was the best of the best. Always warm and laughing. His compassion and sense of humor were apparent, even in difficult circumstances. The world is a better place because Kevin lived and worked in it. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time. You will be missed, Kevin
Kathy and John Shepherd
nan, Mt
We are very sorry to hear about the sudden death of Kevin, his memories will always be with us. Judge doesn't seem that long ago, I can still hear that mischievous chuckle and humorous wit. He was very special; he will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
George Condas
Laguna Niguel, Ca
Alane and family, I am truly, deeply, saddened by your loss and the loss to all who knew Kevin. Never have I met someone so kind and generous and genuinely good inside. He had the ability to make friends with all and he definitely was the life of any party. I am honored to have had the chance to know Kevin. You are in my thoughts. I send you my love and wish you well.
Jared Walker
Salt Lake City, UT
I am so sorry to learn of Kevin's death. To Courtney and all the McKenna family, my thoughts are with you all. Alison McFarlane
Alison McFarlane
Salt Lake City, Ut
Alane, my dear sweet cousin, I am so sorry to hear of Kevin's passing. He was always so kind and loving. I loved to see both you and him at our family gatherings. I hope that you will have the peace and comfort that you so need at this time. You are in my prayers. It is so hard to have hime gone, but he is your perfect guardian angel.
Alease Cox Guymon
Sandy, Ut
It breaks my heart to hear of Kevin's death. When our families would get together in the 60's on Westmoreland and the boys would tease both Courtney and me, I remember Kevin's cocked eyebrow and lopsided grin, together with the mischevious twinkling eyes... then, and later in life as we crossed paths, I was amazed how much Kevin had the same facial expressions that so closely mirrored his father... bless you and your adorable sense of humor -- you will be missed -- we're here for you, McKenna family... we love you!
Lisa & Bob Baker & The Barker Family
Sandy, UT
other than the crazy Norwiegian from the football locker room the funniest thing i remember kevin doing was when he was pressed for time on a writing assignment. kevins penmanship was HORIFIC at best. to buy himself some time... the night before the paper was due he sat down and wrote what APPEARED to be handwriting. he showed it to me and i just about died laughing. he submitted the paper the next day to Father LaPenta our english teacher who returned the paper to Kevin in about 3-4 days and written across the face was "ILLEGIBLE please re-write". Kevin got his time he needed...hilarious. i love you and miss you man! pz
paul zaccardi
sandy, ut
I went to school with Kevin for a lot of years. He was ine of the great story tellers. After and before football games he would have everyone laughingespecially his coach Cordova story in his swedish accent. Sorry to his family and God bless,
Joe Kane
West Valley, UT
Usually this conversation would happen in reverse, but not when Kevin is involved.... Kelly: "Dad! Did you eat ALL the marzipan?!" Kevin (feigning innocence): "who? me?" I believe the only thing that matters in this life is how one treats people, and the only thing we take with us is our family. On both counts Kevin got it right. Kevin missed his Dad so much, sure and begorrah they're together now. Save me a place at the bar Kevin. God bless the McKenna family with comfort, love and affrimation that Kevin and Mr McKenna are with each other now.
Stacy Holcomb
Salt Lake City, UT
Alane - I am extremely to hear of Kevin's death. He was an exceptional man, and I know that you had many good times together. I will not be able to come to the funeral tonight because I will be working, but I wanted you to know that my thoughts are with you, ad I will talk with you later. Karen
Karen Norris
Salt Lake Dity, Ut
Words can not express the sorrow felt for Kevin's passing. I first met Kevin prior to his career with the federal courts. He was always supportive of me and cared about his fellow workers. I have so many fond, funny, happy, and loving memories while assisting him when he first started as a Federal Probation Officer, then in our daily duties in the Pretrial Unit, and lastly as my supervisor in the Presentence Unit. Kevin told many tales of gardening, brewing tea, cooking, etc. He was always quick with a smile and always a loving hand. Kevin will be missed by all he blessed with his friendship and love.
Lorrie Ryther
Centerville, Ut
I am so saddened of the news of Kevin's early passing. Everthing everyone has said expersses the essence of this remarkable person. He could make anyone laugh and I will always remember his smile and wit. I will always remember meeting him at Jeff's apartment early in the morning after Jeff got off the night shift. We would all head up skiing and continued the laughter and fun. My sincere condolences to Kevin's family and friends. The world was made better by Kevin McKenna. God's Blessings
Dave Cook
Sandy, Ut
My deepest sympathy to the McKenna family. Although it has been many years since we have interacted, I always remember the family with great fondness. May you find peace in your memories of Kevin.
Michele McFarlane
Salt Lake City, UT
Kevin will be greatly missed. His kindness and sense of humor can not be matched. He was an incredible colleague who always had your back. Kevin was one of my supervisors who taught me a lot in my career, and he was also a great friend. So many times Kevin's quick wit could lighten any stressful situation. Once in officer safety training Kevin injured his knee, even though he was in pain he was still able to cry out "I'll never dance again." I'll never forget you Bud.
Jerry Hawk
Salt Lake City, UT
Kevin provided me and our little clan with the gift of a hearty belly laugh on many an occasion. The sweet twinkle in his eyes, his sly winks, he was the bringer of mirth. He somehow understood life on a level elevated even without the cocktails (although those were fun too). There was no need to "google it", just ask Kevin, he knew a whole lot about a lot of things. If there was a deeper agenda Kevin's heart was fully present with kindness and support. I would not have had the pleasure to know Kevin if not for my dear, sweet friend Alane and their deep and evolving love. I will miss "Kev" to the ends of the earth.
Margo Stevens
Salt Lake City, Ut
Bob and I and all the kids are so saddened over Kevin's sudden death. We are proud to have him as an uncle and especially another brother. He never knew a stranger. He always made you feel at home. Always smiling and laughing. We feel lie we have known him forever. He is going to bre missed. There is an empty space that can never be filled.This world is a better place fof having known him. Our love to you, Alane, and to the rest of the family. He will always have a big chunk of o ur hearts. Bob and Karen, Jasonn and Lisa, Cammie, Lana, Emmy Colten and Lara, Tim, Sherry and Taylor Rose
Karen Mathena
Orange Park, Fl
Alaine and Family, There are no words to express how bad we feel loosing such a great part of the family. We will always hold Kevin's smile and friendship in our hearts. God must be low on quota for perfect people, because we know that he has quite of few of ours with him. We love you and if we can help in any way just scream at the top of your lungs. Garth and Leanne and Family.
Leanne Fulmer
Layton, Ut
I'm both shocked and sad at Kevin's passing. Kevin worked for me for several years while attending high school and college. He was charming, open and loving with a cheerful disposition toward life. When ever I think about "the Heather" and Kevin Mckenna comes to mind I can't help but smile. One Easter Brunch a well known person left Kevin a $200.00 tip. When I gave him the money he laughed- then ran and jumped through an open window yelling "Son of a Bitch I'm a great waiter!" Kevin leaves a legacy or joy, love and happiness. Skip Eatchel
Skip Eatchel
Sandy, Ut
Dear Ones, Our hearts and thoughts are with you as you celebrate Kevin's life. We are with you in spirit and send each of you our love and deepest sympathy. The memorial photos are wonderful and beautifully captured Kevin's magic combination of sweetness, humor and love.
Kathy and Matt Labadie
Portland, OR
I've known Jeff my whole life and really began to realize what a great man he was once I became a parent. It's then that you realize what the difference between bad, OK, and good really is - he was good to the core. And not only did I realize it because of the way he was always cool and calm, but like anyone who met him, I saw it on his face. It was literally always there in that Million $ smile and beyond kind eyes. He was good and you could depend on it. It was a great thing - something not a lot of people have and only wish they could... but unless your truly good, the way Kevin was, you're not capable of it. He will be missed. May he rest in piece - until we all join him - then we will party and smile at each other once again.
Catherine Schwartz
Los Angeles, Ca
WOW - I mad a lot of mistakes in that last one. Let me try it again: I've known Kevin my whole life and really began to realize what a great man he was once I became a parent. It's then that you realize what the difference between bad, OK and good really is - he was good to the core. And not only did I realize it because of the way he was always cool and calm, but like anyone who met him, I saw it on his face. It was literally always there in that Million $ smile and beyond kind eyes. He was good and you could depend on it. It was a great thing - something not a lot of people have and only wish they could... but unless you're truly good, the way Kevin was, you're not capable of it. He will be missed. May he rest in peace- until we all join him - then we will party and smile at each other once again. Catherine Schwartz Los Angeles, CA
Cat Schwartz
LA, CA
My sincere condolences to the family of Kevin McKenna. I was an assoiciate of Kevin's during his tenure at Adult Probation and Parole for the state of Utah. I appreciated Kevin so much for his commitment to the job. He truly exemplified all that was good and necessary in working those assigned to his supervision. In reading of his accomplishments, including the programs he helped to develope, it is not surprising; he had that level of interest and energy. I wish the family well in dealing with his loss and would like you to know he had the respect of the Department of Corrections, the courts, the Board of Pardons, law enforcement, and all associated agencies and personnel. God bless, Kevin.
Jennifer Kearns Bartell
South Jordan, UT
My sincere condolences to the family of Kevin McKenna. Kevin was one of the greatest indivduals I ever had the prviledge of knowing. He was my buddy and one of the first people to welcome me when I started with the US District Court. I had the special prviledge of being his co-worker, supervisor, and Chief during his career and mine. I was able to share a great hug and true friendship with him when he retired last year. I will always cherish my relationship with him. He was many things to many people. A boss, a co-worker, a dad, a son, brother, husband, mentor, etc.,etc., the greatest of all, he was a friend to all he came in contact with. I loved him and miss him and look forward to seeing his smile again some day. God bless.
Dave Christensen
Salt Lake City, Ut
Jeff, My condolences on the passing of your dear brother. I know you'll miss him very much. The video tribute was lovely.
June S
nan, nan
Dear Alane, What a shock to hear about your husband's death! So young! I'm very sorry to hear. I remember running into you after you'd found each other and I clearly recall your description of him and how happy you were with him. After reading your loving words I feel a sense of his personality. I'm sorry I missed getting to speak with you in person but please know there are many of the old work group that care so much for you and wish there was something we could do.
Elizabeth Roberts
Sandy, UT
Condolences to the McKenna family. The quality of life is not its length but its depth. Kevin lived a wonderful life. I deeply enjoyed everything he did. Gil Cordova
Gilbert Cordova
Salt Lake City, Ut
The real estate leicnse, the test itself contains alot of math, if your good in math, then it should go fairly easy for you. Used to be that you took so many classes, available in evening if needed, then you take the exam, pay for the leicnse, that's about it. Good luck !!!!
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The real estate linscee, the test itself contains alot of math, if your good in math, then it should go fairly easy for you. Used to be that you took so many classes, available in evening if needed, then you take the exam, pay for the linscee, that's about it. Good luck !!!!
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