Max Kennedy

Max Joseph Kennedy, 87, of Topeka KS, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, at Brewster Place in Topeka with his wife at his side. Born on January 19, 1938, in Emmett KS, to John and Agnes Kennedy, he was a devoted husband to Alita Lynne Clark Kennedy for one day short of 62 years, loving father to two sons, grandfather to five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Max is survived by his wife; sons, Patrick (Beth) and Mark (Susan); grandchildren, Sean (Abigail), Scott, Jordan (Zion), and twins, Harper and Riley; great-grandchildren, Theodore, Benjamin, Charlotte, and Montgomery; nephews; nieces; cousins; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Bill and Jack, and sisters Mary and Joann. Max grew up as an Irish Catholic in the Oakland neighborhood of Topeka surrounded by the German community. His early years were spent riding bikes, eating great German food, and playing around the Santa Fe rail yards. While still in high school, he felt a calling to the priesthood and attended seminary. Thankfully for us, Max changed his mind and followed a different calling. After graduating from Hayden High School (lifetime pride-point), Max served in the Army, spending four years in Germany alongside his best friend. Pat and Mark were often regaled with war stories, including the Battle of Bamberg—which they’re certain was a tavern fight. Upon returning home, Max worked at Dial Finance for several years where he met the love of his life, Alita. After a whirlwind romance, they married on February 9, 1963, and later added Pat and Mark to the joyous union. Mixed in with parenting and life, Max attended Washburn University for several years. Max worked as a Revenue Agent for the IRS for over 30 years driving across Kansas working with clients while searching for the best bakeries and then training new agents across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. After retirement, he volunteered as the Holy Name Parish finance administrator and as a docent at the Kansas Capitol Building. Max also served faithfully for his parishes including as a longtime lector at Holy Name and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Additionally, Max was very proud of advancing to the Fourth Degree in the Knights of Columbus and worked many pancake breakfasts. Max gave of himself. For both sons, he was active in Boy Scouts despite “having camped enough in the Army.” He was an excellent wood carver and never once sold a piece. He did it for his relaxation and the joy it gave others. Most were gifts or donated, and for three different Catholic parishes, his art adorns their churches. As the unofficial high school class president, Max brought his classmates together ALL the time. His baking skills were renowned, and he loved to garden and care for his lawn. Family meant everything to Max. His first health scare came in 1987 with a widowmaker heart attack but because of his drive to not miss out on living out future family memories and the driving force of Alita, he made it through. Alita was mostly successful in tamping down his love of pastries and chocolate to keep him with us and of course, his stubbornness had a lot to do with that too. Despite his frequent medical challenges over the next 35+ years, he never complained. He was focused on being there for his family and making their lives amazing. If anyone has been around Max, especially the past few years, you know he’s an accomplished dad jokester and would make Errol Flynn envious with his cane (sword) play. We’re certain when he met St. Peter at the Pearly Gates and was asked, “Max, how are you doing?”, Max replied, “Better than you!” Max’s family and friends will carry his memory forever in their hearts. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a commitment to faith that will never be forgotten. Knights of Columbus 4th Degree Chalice Ceremony and the rosary will be prayed at 5 p.m. Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church, 2014 NW 46th Street, Topeka KS 66618, where visitation will follow until 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church. Private inurnment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Mother Teresa building fund or American Heart Association, and sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Max Kennedy

January 19, 1938 - February 8, 2025