For Jack Kennedy
By D.E. Kennedy
On September fifth
He just closed his eyes,
A Cowboy’s last breath
The pain now subsides.
His legacy like
Most cowboys you see,
Was just simple and honest
A spirit that’s free.
His focus on life
Was a lesson for all,
There just was no quitting
You get up when you fall.
You love with a heart
That just never sways,
You live your convictions
And stand on hard days.
And when you are thrown
And lay in the dirt,
You dust off your hat
And live with the hurt.
And with that last ride
You just smile and know,
There’s a bronco to ride
In God’s rodeo.
I love you Dad
D.E.
John Francis "Jack" Kennedy passed away Monday, September 5, 2005.
He was born June 12, 1918, in Connecticut. Mr. Kennedy proudly served in the U.S. Army in WWII as a combat engineer in Europe during the Normandy invasion.
He rode the Arcadia Rodeo circuit in the 1930's.
Mr. Kennedy began his career as a rodeo cowboy, bull rider and horse trainer in Kissimmee, Florida.
After the war, he lived in California and became a bull rider on the national rodeo circuit for 18 years, and a national horse show judge for 10 years. He was employed as a truck driver for Rock and Gravel, Inc. of California for 30 years.
After retiring to Arcadia, Mr. Kennedy continued as a horse trainer and instructor to many students.
A memorial service was held at 3:00 pm on October 9, 2005 at the Arcadia Rodeo Arena.
Mr. Kennedy will be greatly missed.
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