Dr. John T. Kenny

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. John Thomas Kenny, a beloved resident of Las Vegas, who left this world on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the age of 67. He peacefully departed this life at Northwest Career College, succumbing to natural causes. Dr. Kenny's life was a testament to his unwavering dedication to service, his exceptional work ethic, and his profound love for his family.

John was born to Joseph and Ida Kenny on December 28, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois. He diligently pursued his education, graduating from St. Laurence High School and later earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Northwestern University in 1978. His passion for healthcare led him to the National University of Health Sciences, where he earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 1982.

On April 12, 1985, John married the love of his life, Erin Leigh Kenny, in French Lick, Indiana. Their union was marked by unwavering love, mutual respect, and an unbreakable bond that spanned nearly four decades.

Dr. Kenny's professional journey was one marked by compassion and dedication. He began his career as a Doctor of Chiropractic in 1982 in Palos Hills, Illinois. He later founded Northwest Health Group in 1992, caring for thousands of patients in Las Vegas over the next three decades.

Dr. Kenny’s professional endeavors later expanded to include healthcare education. He founded Northwest Massage School in 1997. He served as the President and longtime CEO, guiding the institution through various evolutions from its humble beginnings as a single-purpose institution with five students as it became Northwest Career College. He also served as an Anatomy and Physiology Instructor for the Massage Therapy Department, teaching hundreds of students over the next two decades.

Dr. Kenny believed he was put on this earth to serve others and lived that mission every day. His incredible work ethic was a testament to his commitment, always arriving early and staying late to ensure that those around him received the care they deserved.

Beyond his professional life, John had a passion for sports, having been a NCAA Division 1 Wrestler from 1974 to 1978. He remained a lifelong fan of the White Sox and Bears, and his love for horse racing was a cherished tradition he shared with his father, wife, and children.

A devout Roman Catholic, John's faith was a cornerstone of his life. His deep spiritual beliefs guided him in his pursuit of aligning body, mind, and spirit to help others reach their greatest potential. His core values of commitment, accountability, and discipline served as a moral compass that inspired those around him.

John had a unique sense of humor, always sharing little jokes and sporting a perpetual twinkle in his eye. His laughter was contagious, and his zest for life was infectious.

John was devoted to his family. He cherished his relationships with his parents, siblings, wife, children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, prioritizing their happiness and well-being above all else. His legacy lives on through his loving family:

John is survived by his wife, Erin Kenny; his children, Dr. Stephanie Kenny (and Sidney Herbert), Dr. Thomas Kenny (and Jilian Lopez), Patrick Kenny (and Thea Kenny), Michael Kenny, Stephen Kenny; his grandchildren, Jordyn Macias, Dominic Macias, Jackson Kenny, Romola Kenny, and Lyla Kenny; and his siblings, Dr. Joe Kenny (and Diane Kenny), Bob Kenny (and Eileen Kenny), Jim Kenny (and Kathy Kenny), Barry Kenny (and Mary Kenny), and Joyce Kikalis.

A memorial service for Dr. Kenny will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 10:00 am at St. Joseph, Husband of Mary Roman Catholic Church. Father Camillus will officiate the service, providing solace to those who mourn the loss of this remarkable man. A celebration of Dr. Kenny's life will be held following the memorial service at 11:30 am at Northwest Career College.

In his memory, let us recall the words of his favorite poem, "The Road Less Traveled" by Robert Frost.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I —

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.”

Dr. Kenny indeed chose the path less traveled, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched. He remains a shining beacon of love, service, and commitment. May his memory continue to illuminate our lives, reminding us to walk the road less traveled with unwavering dedication and a twinkle in our eyes.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmnorthwest.com for the Kenny family.