John Francis Kennedy

John Francis Kennedy, age 51, passed away on St Patrick's Day, March 17, 2017. John was born to Leonard & Kathleen Kennedy on 10/04/1965 in Canton, OH. He was a 1988 graduate of Southgate School, and was employed at Pizza Hut for 23 ½ years. Most recently, he was employed by The Workshops Inc. since 2012, working at WestStark Center. John was a proud member of the Sounds of Silence Choir from 1982 – 1999, which performed in sign language to popular music. He traveled many places with the group, most memorably, performing at the first inauguration of President Bill Clinton in January 1993. He will always be remembered for his big smile, and even bigger "bear" hug! He loved music and "singing" in sign language, Notre Dame & Pittsburgh Steelers football, the Cleveland Cavaliers & LeBron, and most of all, his family. We will surely miss his gentle soul and bright smile! Since August of 2014, John has lived at a group home on Stonecreek Ave NE in North Canton. We are extremely grateful for the kindness of the people he worked with at Pizza Hut, and the staff at Stonecreek. John was proceeded in death by his father Leonard in 2004, and his dearest friend Tricia Sober in March 2016. He is survived by his mother Kathleen, his brother Joseph Kennedy (Linda), his aunt Frances Lescallett, and many other relatives and friends. Friends may call Friday from 9-10 a.m. at Saint Joan of Arc Catholic Church with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10 a.m. with Father G. David Weikart as celebrant. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Joan of Arc Church, Stark County DD, or a charity of your choice.