James Kenney

James Kenney, more commonly known as “Rooster” or “Big Red”, passed away unexpectedly on July 7, 2023 at his home in Ashland, where he was born and raised.  Born on Groundhogs Day of 1961, he left us too soon at the age of 62.

He graduated from North Schuylkill in 1979.  He was a leading member of the boys’ basketball team, football team and track team.  Immediately following graduation, he started his dedicated lifelong career at Ashland Foundry (previously known as Gould’s Pump) where he just recently started planning for retirement.

Outside of work, he was an avid hunter, as he would impatiently await “The Annual Hunting Trip” each November.   He loved to spend time training and caring for his dog, Nakita, and recently departed dog Erin.  Above all else, he loved to spend time with his family and friends, making new memories and sharing old ones, all while making everyone laugh.

It goes without saying that with a nickname like “Big Red”, he was well known for being the tall, red-headed Kenney of Ashland who stood 6 foot 6.  However, for his family and friends, he was better known for the size of his heart and for the size of his one-of-a-kind personality.  James was a man of great compassion, love, selflessness, and humor. 

He will be forever remembered and greatly missed by his sister: Maryann Gates and her significant other Mike, his four nephews: Shawn Gates, Stephen Kenney, Matthew Kenney and Ryan Kenney, his aunt: Martha Kenney, his first cousin and lifelong best friend: Joseph Kenney and his family, his first cousin: Karen Damiter and her family, and his long-time best friend: James Petrucci and his family.  Along with family, he will be forever remembered and greatly missed by his innumerable amount of friends and co-workers. 

He is proceeded in death by his father, John “Jack” Kenney and his mother, Florence Kenney, and his recently departed older brothers John “Jack” Kenney and Michael Kenney. 

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday July 15th from 9:30-11:00 AM at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 1115 Walnut St, Ashland PA 17921.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow the visitation at 11:00 AM in the church.  Interment will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Ashland.

Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc, 901 Centre St, Ashland PA has been entrusted with arrangements.

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