Webster, NY
September 27, 1944 – June 19, 2021
Danny died with his loving family surrounding him while watching the birds play outside his window as his journey on earth came to a peaceful end on a sunny Saturday afternoon with the most beautiful red sunset sky later that evening…"sailors delight". Danny fit a lot into his short 76 years with us on earth. Predeceased by his Mother Elsie (Goethals) Kennard and Father Gerald Kennard, his brother Robert (Maureen) Kennard and Sister-in-Law, Barbara Kennard, Sister-in-Law Linda (Joseph) Johnson, Sister-in-Law, Lorna (Robert) Lacombe and Brother-in-Law, Richard Dufrane, niece Susan Kennard, good friend William "Mountain" Withall.
Danny was survived by the love of his life and was husband of 48 "Wouuuunderful Years" to, Lona (Shutts) Kennard whom he lovingly called "Will", just a couple years short from their Golden Anniversary. Danny loved deeply and was loved deeply in return by his family and friends. In addition to his wife Lona, Danny was survived by his only daughter and son in law, Michelle (Joshua) Putnam and his only granddaughter Cora Putnam, who he was so proud of. Many weekends Cora and "Pops" spent the evening after Grammy went to bed, eating popcorn and watching Madea movies, or sharing inside jokes. She brought so much comfort to him in his final days.
Danny was also survived by his Brother's Gerald Kennard, Douglas (Margaret Buckel) Kennard. Sister in law Marleen Dufrane. Best Friend's James (Linda) Withall, Patricia Withall, Gary Grove, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends throughout the USA that he cared for dearly.
Danny graduated from East High School in 1963. Some of the highlights of his life was his service in the U.S. Navy as an electrician mate onboard the USS Lloyd Thomas (DD764). He said those 4 years were some of the best times of his life, he was able to travel the world including the Mediterranean Sea, the Indian Ocean and the eastern coast of Africa. After a few beers you were sure to hear a story or two from those times. He was very proud of his service and of all those that wear the uniform. Danny enjoyed playing golf, gambling, playing lotto, bowling, vacations in Daytona Beach, cards and of course having a few "cold ones" on the weekend. Hired in 1983 at Gannett Rochester Newspapers, he worked as an overnight press electrician to ensure the D&C was hot off the presses! By taking advantage of saving all he could and investing in the stock market in the 80's and 90's.
Danny retired at age 55 when him and Lona "sold it all" so they could live their lifetime dream of living on a golf course in Florida. They lived there for 13 years and he said it was the best vacation they ever had. Danny also realized another lifetime dream, when he was hired on the grounds crew of the Crake Lakes Golf Course. It was a true highlight of his life and on the flip side he never had to buy another golf ball again. Him and Lona made many new friendships and memories from those days in Port Orange, FL that turned into forever friends. To many on Crane Feather Drive, Danny was known as the "Mayor". His buddy the "Gov" lived across the way and down the road was the "plug". If Danny had a nickname for you, that was just a way to tell you how much he loved you and liked being around you. He had nicknames for everyone. He was also a very kind and generous man. If someone needed something fixed or he could help out using his electrician skills he was happy to do so. Danny also donated to many charities, to the point that Lona will never need to buy another note pad the rest of her life. He always believed in giving back to those less fortunate.
To honor him, his final wish was in lieu of flowers, to please consider donating to either the American Cancer Society or the Veterans of Foreign Wars Perinton Memorial Post 8495, where Danny kicked back a few cold ones and played bingo. Danny's family would like to thank all the Nurses and Patient Aides that assisted us during his at home hospice. And a special thank you to Lois Putnam, who donated her time and compassion to help our family through this incredibly tough time. We can't thank you enough for being there for us all.
Friends may call Tuesday, June 29, 2021 from 11am -1pm, followed by a 1:00pm Memorial Service with Naval Honors at the New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 6 Empire Blvd. (corner of Culver Rd.)
For those unable to make the memorial service, Newcomer will be offering a weblink to watch the
memorial live. Please check with Michelle for the link. A private family and close friends celebration of life will be after the service at a local tavern. Please come dressed casually as Danny was not much for suits and ties. Please join us to honor this incredible man and a life well lived. You did it, you finally made the lucky list!