Kenny Roy Pardue lived a good life. His top five Strengths were Deliberative, Consistency, Adaptability, Developer and Relator.
Kenny spent 43 years on this earth and while those who knew him best understood his quiet greatness, we really understood it in his final days as he fought valiantly against the beast that stalks so many: cancer.
KP was a champ. He possessed a quiet and surprising strength, a determination, a stubborn and beautiful self will that helped him overcome cancer as an 8 year old and then again, battle cancer at forty-three. A true warrior, pressed but not crushed; struck down but not destroyed.
Left to mourn his absence for now is his favorite (and only) wife, Jenny Joy and their Golden Boy, Walter Fantastic. His dad, Ken ("KP, Sr.") and his wife, Linda. His sister Leah and her family (Matt, Owen & Maggie). His mom, Robin and sisters & their families: Kristin (Brad, Connor & Tyler), Kendra (Lynn, Evan, Emma & Emmet). Kenny is deeply missed by Jenny’s family, as well: Pam and Dick ("Mr. Hill"). Joe & Becky, Erin & Anthony, Josh & Abby, Ellie. Ryan & Angie, Anna, Ella & Jacob. Mandi & Dave, Kaden & Lila. And forever The Maid of Honor, Kirsten B. Hill.
A special thanks to KP’s new Arizona family, Auntie Nani and Uncle Jerry, Mike and Meo who welcomed KP in as their own, serving as the hands and feet of the Church. As well, his wonderful work family at Hennepin County Medical Center - KP wanted to make sure you all knew how much he loved his work family; he was so grateful to learn from you all and he loved his work. There are many, many other family and friends who love Kenny, lest we run out of pages and ink to write.
We imagine Kenny was cheered to the finish line by so many loved ones including his grandparents, Mama and Papa Pardue, Grandma and Grandpa Edstrom, sister Michelle, Uncle Keith and most recently, Jenny’s grandma “Mrs. Jones”. Kenny looked forward to hugging his beloved dog, Mia, who we lost this past September. He planned to run through open fields with her and his other huskies, Indy & Juneau. Kenny couldn’t wait for ultimate freedom. He said he was going to swim in oceans and enjoy a nice cup of coffee again as the sun rose.
A special thanks to all who carried us through the last seven months and especially to our family who held the torch in the last days before Kenny’s ultimate, perfect, Heavenly healing. In an instant, KP’s suffering was no more. In an instant, Kenny was cancer free. In an instant, he was beholden by the love and forgiving grace of his Savior, Jesus.
We resolve, Kenny’s life and legacy will continue to produce good fruit. His struggles will not be in vain because we firmly believe the God who loves us all (ALL - everyone include!) does not cause bad things to happen. But when they do, we believe in a loving Christ Crucified, who can work good in ALL THINGS. We have seen that from Kenny’s life - beginning to the end and especially as he won his last earthly battle.
Kenny wins. Glory be.
A celebration of life and graveside goodbye for now will be held on Saturday, April 3rd at Barrett Funeral Chapel in Cleveland, Georgia. Visitation from 12pm - 2pm with services starting at 2pm. Kenny will be waiting for Resurrection Day at Yonah View Memorial Gardens, against the trees with a mountain view. What a day it will be!
A second celebration of life is planned for Friday, April 30th at Woodland Hills Church in St. Paul, MN. Visitation will be from 1:30pm - 2pm with services starting at 2pm.
KP always had good style. He felt his best when he was comfortable in whatever he wore. In honor of who Kenny was on earth, we invite anyone and everyone who has been touched by Kenny’s life to attend his celebration(s) and in doing so, to come as you are! No dress codes here - wear what makes you feel your best.
All are welcome! Bring your full heart, your love for Kenny, your joy for his ultimate healing and gratitude for the gift of life, overall.
Kenny’s deep desire was for love, peace, joy and harmony. We will continue to honor his wishes. Our lives will never be the same because we have been touched by the life of Kenny Roy Pardue.
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