Alan Francis Kennedy

Alan graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central and later attended Western Michigan University. He proudly served four years in the United States Army before returning home to begin a successful career in the retail industry. His career took him (and his wife Barbara) to several different communities throughout Michigan, where he worked for many years in the grocery industry before transitioning to pharmacy. Eventually, they returned home to Muskegon, where he continued to enjoy being close to family and the community he knew so well.

Al was a hardworking man who took great pride in his career and providing for his family. But some of his greatest joys came from the time he spent with those he loved. For many years, family vacations brought his children and grandchildren together for a week each summer at a lake somewhere in Michigan. Those weeks were filled with fishing, boating, preparing meals together, playing games, laughter, and sometimes simply relaxing and enjoying one another's company. With family living in several different states across the country, Al also enjoyed traveling to visit them whenever he could. Those trips and family gatherings created memories that will be treasured for generations.

Alan is survived by his brothers, Chuck and Larry (Luanne) Kennedy, who became especially important to him following a series of strokes that took away much of his independence. Alan had always been close to his family, but those circumstances brought him and his brothers even closer. He was deeply grateful for the love, care, and support they provided.

He is also survived by his stepchildren, who had been an important part of his life for nearly 60 years: Renae Hesselink, Tim Hesselink, Craig (Laurie) Hesselink, Kay (Ed) Bonyak, and Gayle (Scott) Evans. He leaves behind eight grandchildren, whom he adored, and six great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Alan was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara (Neidlinger) Kennedy, with whom he shared 46 years with before her passing in 2013; his parents, John and Helen Kennedy; his siblings, Shirley Bugaski and John “Sonny” Kennedy, his sister-in-law Margie Kennedy; and his stepson, Robert Hesselink.

Alan will be remembered for his strong work ethic, devotion to family, appreciation for time spent together, and the many memories he created with those he loved. His family will carry those memories with them and cherish the years they were blessed to have him in their lives.

Visitation & Service:

Visitation will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Ever Rest Funeral Home and Cremation Chapel. A service, including military honors, will begin at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Alan's memory may consider making a donation to Heartland Hospice, whose compassionate care supported Alan and his family. Donations may be made through the Gentiva Foundation: Heartland Hospice / Gentiva Foundation Donation Page.