William J. Kennedy

William J. Kennedy age 82, of Lake in the Hills, Illinois and formerly of Chicago, Illinois passed away at his home on Monday, November 4, 2024 with his loving family at his side. He was born on December 2, 1941 in Chicago, Illinois to Eileen Bennett Kennedy Berman and James Kennedy. 

Except for a short time spent in California, Bill lived his entire life in the Chicago area. He attended Elgin Academy and graduated from the Latin School of Chicago before attending Cornell University. 

Bill married the love of his life Cheryl (nee Smith) in 1980 and became dad to her daughter, Hillary Accarizzi.  In 2001, he became adoring grandpa to Elizabeth Johnston. 

Bill and Cheryl were long-time members of St. Pauls United Church of Christ in Chicago where Bill lent his beautiful baritone voice to the church’s choir for 25 years. He also served two terms as a deacon of the church, was a Sunday school teacher and an active member of the Men’s "Prayer" group (aka poker group).

After retirement, Bill and Cheryl caught the travel bug, visiting Italy, England, Ireland, Scotland, Turkey, Greece, and the Caribbean. 

In addition to his immediate family, Bill is survived by his sister-in-law, Allyson (Smith) Byers of Apollo, PA and several cousins. 

Family & friends will gather on Saturday, January 11, 2025  for a 1:00 p.m. Memorial Service at St. Pauls United Church of Christ, 2335 N. Orchard St., Chicago. 

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Bill may make a donation to his favorite charity, the Health Wagon or to the Northern Illinois Food Bank. 

Local arrangements are entrusted with Willow funeral Home in Algonquin, Illinois.

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