Joseph Kennedy, 79, passed away at his residence on High Street, surrounded by his family on Monday October 15th. He resided there with his wife of fifty-five years Helen (Oberg) Kennedy.

Joe was born on July 3, 1939, in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late Joseph and Anne (Fayne) Kennedy. He received a Bachelor's Degree from Queens College and was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving from 1957 – 1962.

Joe started his career with the city of New York in 1963, first as a police officer, then becoming a fire fighter until his retirement in1986. He also spent many years at the Randall's Island Division of Training as an instructor. Joe was deeply effected by the events of September 11, 2001 losing many dear friends and students. Joe was easy to please and found that the greatest gifts in life were family and friends. He and his family enjoyed spending summers at Taconic Lake.

Survivors other than his wife Helen include their children Denise (Mike) Touchard of Baltimore, MD, Stephen (Debbie) Kennedy of Port Charlotte, FL, Craig (Suzanne) Kennedy of Eagle Bridge, NY and Christopher (Lisa) Kennedy of Latham, NY , also survived by nine grandchildren. Joe is predeceased by two brothers Thomas and James Kennedy.

Services will be at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the care of the Mahar Funeral Home, 43 Main Street in Hoosick Falls, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to either the Rensselaer County Community Hospice or the Salvation Army through the funeral home.