Jack Kennedy

John "Jack" E. Kennedy, age 68, of Benson, died unexpectedly on Sunday morning, December 18, at his home in Benson.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 22, at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Benson. Interment will be at Benson City Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 21, at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Benson and will continue for one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are with Peterson Brothers Funeral Home in Willmar. www.petersonbrothers.com

John "Jack" Edward Kennedy was born on April 27, 1948, in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Willis "Bill" and Catherine (Krattenmaker) Kennedy. He grew up in the Benson community, graduated from Benson High School in 1966 and began working with his father Bill at Kennedy Excavating, of which he purchased in 1969. In 1967, Jack was united in marriage to Janice Most. They made their home in Benson and later divorced. In 1989, Jack was married to Connie Higdon and they lived in Benson. In 2002, Jack's son, Troy purchased the excavating business and he later retired. Jack was deputy for the Swift County Sheriff's department for over 30 years. In 1970, Jack was involved with starting the Benson Clown Club. He was a member of Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church, the Masons, Shriners, Benson JC's and was active in the Benson Hockey Association. His hobbies included snowmobiling, golfing, hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, playing cards and trips to the casino. He cherished time spent with his many friends and family, especially his grandchildren, Danielle and Kyle. Jack will be sadly missed by all his 3pm coffee friends and the 4:30 pm roll call at the Benson VFW. Jack was a very friendly and outgoing person that help many people in times of need.


He is survived by his son, Troy (and Julie) Kennedy of Benson; two grandchildren, Danielle Hanson (and fiancé, Derek Braseth) of Lake Park and Kyle Kennedy of Benson; one sister, Barbara Naig of Benson; one niece, Cammie Lillehaug of Chanhassen and one nephew, Jamie Naig of Hancock, besides other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Connie in 2005.

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