Thomas W Kenney

It was always such a pleasure to be around Tom. I will never forget watching fireworks in his backyard. He was such a welcoming presence. When he showed me all of his pictures in his basement of his children and their accomplishments, his eyes just lit up. I always told him that I wished he was my dad. He let me store my things in his garage when I moved and was one of the best men I have ever known. I will miss him forever. Thanks Tom, for being such a great friend to my mom and such a great friend to me. I love you! Anissa Rusch (daughter of Lynn Herman)

Tom was one of the friendliest people I have ever met. It didn't matter what you did or who you were Tom had a way about him that made you feel important and comfortable. Heaven's getting a good one. RIP Tom

I spent the last few days contacting and commiserating with many of our common friends from the Lake Lawn Stables days. Everyone is, of course, devastated. But conversations quickly turned to great stories about Tom and his innate ability to connect with people in a sincere and profound way. Cathy and I were privileged to interact with Tom and Marita during early marriage days, raising young families and first houses. Tom and I shared an interest in and participated with our respective rescue squads. I was also blessed to get to know his parents, siblings and many of his friends who became mine as well. We spent a lot of time catching up on our kids and their lives during our last conversation. Tom was very proud of his children. And I am so glad that Tom found Julie and her family. I know they meant a lot to him as well. Tom and I had periods of years when we did not communicate directly, but he was one of those friends who you could sit down with and experience an immediate reconnection. I will cherish those memories.

My sympathies to Julie and all his family. He spoke of you all often and lovingly, even when at work. Meghan Hessler; UW Madison-SPMH.