by Millicent K. Brody

 

On Saturday evening, May 14th, close to 475 people gathered to celebrate the life of Michael Kenny, who for twenty years cared for Temple Emanu-El in Westfield, as well as the Community. 

 

Catered by Eddie Levy proprietor of Signature Creation Caterers of Linden, guests feasted on a continuous selection of drinks and hors d’oeuvres, fresh garden salad, herb-crusted, roasted chicken with wild rice, and asparagus. Dessert featured fresh fruit, a selection of delicious pastries, sorbet, coffee, and tea.

 

In addition to a continuous round of roasts, and toasts, guests were treated to a video of his life experiences at Temple Emanu-El. Surrounded by rounds of congratulatory praise from colleagues, friends, guests, and family, the gentle Mike Kenny was praised for truly caring about improving the world around him.

 

A veritable fixture at Temple Emanu-El, Mike’s organizational skills, keen sense of humor, and ability to rise to any and all occasions, regardless of the challenge, have made him one of the most beloved, and appreciated members of the Temple Emanu-El community.

 

Folks who know Mike appreciate the endless support he gives to folks living and working in Westfield. Some of his masterful accomplishments include: Serving on the Executive Board of the Healing Community at Fairview Lake, a camp for children and families living with HIV AIDS; He served four years as President of the AIDS Benefit Committee of New Jersey, and organized benefits for local families in need. He has raised funds for the Tourette’s Syndrome Association of New Jersey. More recently, he  volunteered his time to travel to New Orleans with a group of students from Temple Emanu-El. It was their hope to assist with rebuilding the community after the hideous flood damage.

 

Mike Kenny lives in Westfield with his wife Nancy. He had the esteemed pleasure of sharing the celebratory event with Nancy, son Mike Jr., daughters Shauna, her husband Michael, Tiffany, and Jessica  his mom Betty, members of his family, many members of the Westfield Police and Fire Department, a host of friends and members of Temple Emanu-El.