Kenneth L. Kennedy Jr., 57, of New Freedom, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, September 14, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his parents, his sisters, and his dear friend, Kelie Pillion.

Born February 15 in York, PA, he was the son of Ken Sr. and Susan Kennedy of Manchester, PA. In addition to his parents, Ken—“Kenny” to many—is survived by his grandmother, Ann Duerr; two sisters, Beth (Jim) Shelly of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, and Kim (Bob) Graffin of New Freedom, PA; his niece and nephew, Jacqueline Shelly of Ponte Vedra Beach and Eric Shelly of New York City; and his nieces, Stephanie Graffin of Allentown, PA, and Kelly Graffin and her fiancé, Steven Lorence, of Glendale, CA. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, William L. Duerr Sr., and his grandparents, David and Elizabeth Kennedy.

Ken’s career reflected a curious mind and a steadfast work ethic. He began in civil engineering and information technology—working in security and network engineering—before discovering a calling on the open road as a professional truck driver. Blending technical acumen with firsthand experience behind the wheel, he moved into logistics and operations, where he modernized processes, improved routes and fleet reliability, and championed safety and service. He held leadership roles with A&S Kinard, Buckler Transport Inc., Cowan, and DM Bowman Trucking, and was known as steady under pressure, fair in his decisions, and generous with his time. He retired with the quiet satisfaction of a well-lived.

In retirement, and despite declining health, Ken spent his time traveling to places such as Ireland, many US national parks, fishing, and being with those he loved. Above all, he lived life on his own terms—with a bright smile and unwavering positivity—always seeing the best in others, even when they could not see it themselves.

Arrangements will be made by the Cremation Services of PA., and a private family ceremony will be held at their convenience. In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Ken Kennedy Jr. may be directed to support cancer research at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. Please make checks payable to Johns Hopkins University. Gifts may be mailed with a memo indicating that this gift is in memory of Kenneth L Kennedy, Jr. to the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, P.O. Box 49143, Baltimore, MD 21297-9143 or make a gift online at hopkinscancer.org .