ForeverMissed
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Kevin passed away peacefully in his sleep early on the morning of Sept. 23. During his stay at the new Horizon Hospice at Rush University Medical Center, he was continually surrounded by his parents, siblings, family members and friends.

A memorial service is planned for Sunday, Oct. 7, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Calo Ristorante at 5343 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, 60640. Everyone is welcome to come by and share their memories of and make a toast to our friend Kevin. No additional services are planned. Next summer, Kevin's family plans to scatter his ashes in Maine, a place whose combined beauty and turbulence Kevin believed accurately reflected his nature.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Trevor Project, an anti-bullying foundation whose mission was important to Kevin. Donations can be made by going to: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/onetimegift


September 24, 2023
September 24, 2023
I thought of Kevin today, but I didn't know that he had died. From what I remember, he had a beautiful, loving heart - a heart that some of us can only hope for. To Eric and Kevin's family, I pray that the light of precious memories and blessings overwhelm the darkness of loss. It may be 11 years, but that doesn't mean that it's any less significant.
September 23, 2022
September 23, 2022
It was 10 years ago today I said goodbye and kissed you for the very last time. Now more than ever I long for our candid conversations, your honest opinion, practical advice and unconditional love. I miss you and I'm still trying to live a "good life". Love, Eric
July 25, 2020
July 25, 2020
Thinking about lost friends during life in Pandemic Bizarro World.

I had a very small circle of friends in high school and, in the group, Kevin was the most aggravating, sincere, dorky, sharp-witted, and opinionated (in our group, that was really saying something!). He always carried his heart on his sleeve and he never hesitated to speak his mind, regardless of how popular his point of view might be. I literally cannot imagine high school without him and I didn’t realize just how much I missed him. I deeply regret not taking time off to go along with Brenda any of the times she visited Kevin after he’d moved away. (“Too busy right now, give him my love, I’ll catch him next time.")  I’d love to hear his take on the pandemic, the militarization of police, the latest meme, and well, just everything. The best part of hanging out with Kevin was knowing that we’d find things to disagree about if we just kept talking long enough, LOL. When he really got into it, his eyes would sparkle like nobody’s business. 

I really miss arguing with him. 
September 23, 2018
September 23, 2018
It was a morning much like this morning when I drove home from the hospice center for the last time and thought, “Wow, it’s cold outside.”  It was no longer summer. Time had moved on and I had to catch up. I can’t believe it has been 6 years already. Time has again moved on and I find myself having to catch up again. 
I missed you, Kevin.
September 23, 2017
September 23, 2017
It has been five years since I held your hand one last time. I miss our deep conversations, random times chilling on the couch, you dragging me out to do things that were always fun and memorable. You will never be forgotten, always missed and forever loved.
October 22, 2016
October 22, 2016
Kevin was a dear classmate in high school. Sadly we lost touch after high school and I just learned of his passing last night. I truly enjoyed our time in drama club. He was an unforgettable special sole. Clearly he led a short but fulfilling, impactful life. My thoughts and prayers go out to Eric, The McKenna family and all of Kevin's friends.
September 23, 2015
September 23, 2015
Some days it feels like it was yesterday, other times, a lifetime ago. But one thing remains constant, I miss your wit, warmth, friendship and smile.  Love you always.
September 23, 2014
September 23, 2014
It is difficult to believe you have been gone for two years now. I miss your smile and wit everyday. Sometimes I would think, "what you Kevin do..." but then that would usually get me into trouble.  I miss you and our time together.
July 12, 2014
July 12, 2014
Thinking of you on your birthday and what we'd be doing today. I miss you and think about you every day. Love you always.
July 11, 2014
July 11, 2014
Thinking of Kevin on what would have been his 50th birthday. I think about you a lot my friend and miss you. You will be in our thoughts next weekend when Mike and I (finally) get married. You were a big part of our coming together and it makes me sad that I won't see you there, but like to think you will be there with us in sprirt. Much love.
September 23, 2013
September 23, 2013
A year ago today the world lost one of its greatest inhabitants; however, the love he shared, the wisdom he bestowed and the light he radiated is still felt, remembered and passed on by those who knew and loved Kevin. We keep his spirit alive and it is through us that the world doesn’t seem so cold, empty or dark. I will miss you and love you always.
July 29, 2013
July 29, 2013
We said our final goodbyes to Kevin on July 21st at Otter's Point in Acadia National Park outside of Bar Harbor, Maine as we spread his ashes along the coast. It was a beautiful day and an awe inspiring setting that I know Kevin would have loved. We will forever remember and miss Kevin. It is a spot I will return to again. Love you, Kevin.
July 11, 2013
July 11, 2013
Happy Birthday, old friend. I will look for the brightest star in the sky tonight and know that it is you.
July 11, 2013
July 11, 2013
Happy Birthday, Kevin. I miss you. Remembering the good time we had a year ago today celebrating your birthday. Having dinner at Calo's again tonight in your honor. Love always, Eric
October 31, 2012
October 31, 2012
I will miss those long, deep and very intellectually stimulating conversations and the laughs that went with them. Kevin, you were one in a million and one of a kind. Thanks for being you and the unconditional friendship you gave to me. You will be very missed ... ... Love, Greg
October 23, 2012
October 23, 2012
It was a month ago today the world lost an intelligent, witty, compassionate, honest, loving and the most selfless man I have yet to meet. He will be forever missed and his impact never forgotten. I love you Kevin.
October 6, 2012
October 6, 2012
Just found a picture, which I posted that reminds me of the fun we had when Kevin relocated to Chicago from Denver, after visiting us. He took to Chicago immediately and joined our volleyball team & the pic is our comedic group, appropriately named the Pastoral "Cheese Poofs", when we came out of no where and won first place in the end of season tournament and then celebrated with bubbly!
October 3, 2012
II remember Kevin most for his participation in the music program at Voorheesville. He always had a smile on his face and was one of the most positive people I knew. He had a great sense of humor as well.
I send my love and support to you Eric and to the whole McKenna family during this time.
October 2, 2012
October 2, 2012
I had Kevin as a student at Voorheesville in the mid 1970's.I recognized his name as soon as I saw the sad news in the Albany newspaper. After more than thirty years, I still remember him as a kind young man. Reading of his accomplishments,I am sure that he made a difference in leaving the world a better place because he was in it. So sorry for his loved ones that he had to leave too soon.
October 1, 2012
October 1, 2012
I am so very sorry to hear of Kevin's passing. The McKenna family was so very loving and welcoming to me when Sharon and I were in school together. It was a home filled with intellect, music, laughter, and love. I am grateful to have such warm memories of you all. May your music, love, and laughter be a comfort to you now. ~Lisa Petrone Bohl
September 29, 2012
September 29, 2012
Oh, how we laughed in high school! Kevin was smart, witty, & exceptionally kind. I remember vividly a specific incident where Kevin’s compassion lifted my spirits and took the edge off a moment of teenage angst. Just a few weeks ago I relayed the details of that story to my 16 year old daughter as an example of what to look for in a friend. Kevin made the world a better place.
September 29, 2012
September 29, 2012
I don't remember the last time I saw Kevin, but we did exchange a couple of emails after a class reunion. It is hard to think about my time in high school without thinking of Kevin: driving back and forth to the pathology lab for a biology internship with the rabbits, and of course all those plays and countless rehearsals. Holy Cabooses. Rest in Peace.
September 28, 2012
September 28, 2012
I will miss you! You were the definition of a friend exactly when I needed one. I will never forget you! While you are likely responsible for building out my social network in Chicago, the times I remember most are when it was just us, lost in our own little world. Thank you for suggesting I do my laundry at your place instead of the laundrymat for a wonderful friendship followed. :-)
September 26, 2012
September 26, 2012
So sorry to hear about Kevin. At least it's clear, from the pictures, and comments, that he led a full, if short, life. I remember Keven vividly from high school, and sometimes wondered what became of him. It's a shame he couldn't join us at our 30th reunion.
September 25, 2012
September 25, 2012
To my other family.... How do I tell you how sorry and sad I am to hear about Kevin. So many great memories! Love to all!
September 25, 2012
September 25, 2012
So sorry to hear about Kevin. Although he was too young to leave this world, it's clear from these tributes what an impact he had. Will continue to pray for him and his family and friends.
September 24, 2012
September 24, 2012
Kevin - When you walked into a room, people were drawn to your warm smile & sharp wit. I can't believe that you are actually gone. You will be greatly missed.
September 24, 2012
September 24, 2012
To all of Kevin's family and friends: We are so sorry to hear of the fight Kevin had to fight recently and of his passing. We knew him in high school and unfortunately lost touch after. We grew up in a small community so knowing him and his wonderful family were special times. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this very tough time. ~Deb and Malcolm Trombley
September 24, 2012
September 24, 2012
Kevin you were vigilant champion of all things right in this world. I will miss our spirited conversations, your laugh, and above all your wicked awesome fighting spirit. I just know the angels are singing - for a true warrior has joined their ranks. Thank you for keeping us safe Kev.
September 24, 2012
September 24, 2012
Dear Kevin...just heard about your death. I've thought of your warm vibrance and commitment to the truth over the years and wondered where you'd gotten. I am sorry to have lost touch with you after Foley. You are one of the people that have helped me to remember to live the best parts of myself. Live on in peace!
September 24, 2012
September 24, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire McKenna family. Kevin was a Drama Club upperclassman when I was in HighSchool. . . we met during a production of The Matchmaker (my first...) I'll always have fond memories of him, and am glad his charm and effusiveness followed him in life. Rest in peace, Kevin. . .
September 24, 2012
September 24, 2012
Kevin and I reconnected at the retirement celebration of our high school choral teacher several years ago and most recently, he was missed at our 30th high school reunion. My prayers go out to the McKenna Family and all of Kevin's friends.
September 24, 2012
September 24, 2012
I am sorry to hear of Kevin's death, shocked really. My thoughts are with Eric and all of Kevin's friends and family. I remember a nice, skinny kid with a great smile. Peace and love, Cathy Teuten
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
Eric you were a guardian angel to him throughout and you have the gratitude of us all, especially Kevin.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
Seeing all of Kevin's friends support him during his final weeks was so special to me and spoke to his great character. Kevin was everyone's favorite patient, which is a testament to his ability to charm even people who had just met him. I feel privileged to have known him for as long as I did. I just wanted to be as good and caring a friend to him as he was to me.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Kevin's passing. he was such a good friend in high school and someone I really looked up to. You will be missed by so many, Kevin.
Anne Marie (Olsen) Chavez
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
Kevin still managed to talk my ear off only a couple weeks ago when I visited him in the hospice ... and I cherished every word. It had been too long since I'd seen him, but we immediately started chatting like we hadn't skipped a beat. Thanks to you, Eric, for being an angel over his shoulder during the tough times. Peace to Kevin and all of us who loved him. ~ Doug
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
Kevin and I met while singing in the BGMC, it seems ages ago. He handled my real estate purchases and sales deftly and professionally. In fact, I'll never forget his smile as he handed me the check for the proceeds from my condo. I had no idea that our life journeys had brought us both to Chicago. Peace to Eric and Kevin's family.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
I never met Kevin, but just wanted to send my thoughts and prayers to his family, who my sister, Kate has spoken of often. GOD BLESS the McKenna family.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
Goodbye, Kevin. I hope you're able to ski where ever you are and the guys are good looking:) Rest in peace.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
We love you buddy and will always miss you. I will never forget the times you brought the boys apple picking and then invited them over to make apple pie and apple sauce. You even taught them how to properly use a knife.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of his hand. ~Irish Blessing
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
Rest in peace, my friend. You will be missed.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
My heart breaks for his family. I grew up with them, went to school with them, went to church with them. I'm so sorry for their loss. He very briefly dated a very good friend of mine, and unknowingly was a great help in my getting through some rough times. I'm so sorry.
September 23, 2012
September 23, 2012
So many years since I saw him but thought of him so very often. I was so glad to have connected again recently. From his V'ville friends.... he will be so missed.....
Peace and free flight Kevin......

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Recent Tributes
September 24, 2023
September 24, 2023
I thought of Kevin today, but I didn't know that he had died. From what I remember, he had a beautiful, loving heart - a heart that some of us can only hope for. To Eric and Kevin's family, I pray that the light of precious memories and blessings overwhelm the darkness of loss. It may be 11 years, but that doesn't mean that it's any less significant.
September 23, 2022
September 23, 2022
It was 10 years ago today I said goodbye and kissed you for the very last time. Now more than ever I long for our candid conversations, your honest opinion, practical advice and unconditional love. I miss you and I'm still trying to live a "good life". Love, Eric
July 25, 2020
July 25, 2020
Thinking about lost friends during life in Pandemic Bizarro World.

I had a very small circle of friends in high school and, in the group, Kevin was the most aggravating, sincere, dorky, sharp-witted, and opinionated (in our group, that was really saying something!). He always carried his heart on his sleeve and he never hesitated to speak his mind, regardless of how popular his point of view might be. I literally cannot imagine high school without him and I didn’t realize just how much I missed him. I deeply regret not taking time off to go along with Brenda any of the times she visited Kevin after he’d moved away. (“Too busy right now, give him my love, I’ll catch him next time.")  I’d love to hear his take on the pandemic, the militarization of police, the latest meme, and well, just everything. The best part of hanging out with Kevin was knowing that we’d find things to disagree about if we just kept talking long enough, LOL. When he really got into it, his eyes would sparkle like nobody’s business. 

I really miss arguing with him. 
Recent stories
August 6, 2020
I knew Kevin for a few years when he lived in Boston.  He and I are Notre Dame alumni, and had bonded over creating a gay and lesbian alumni group for the university -- GALA-ND/SMC. I remember his sparkling smile and Irish eyes and quick wit.  I also remember a backyard BBQ he attended at my home in Cambridge.  He was the hit of the afternoon.  It was Bastille Day, too.  It is still difficult to acknowledge that he has been gone from us for this time. It has been eight years already.  Rest in peace my friend until we meet again.

Chuck Colbert

My Guys

October 6, 2012
This is a picture that makes me smile and brings tears to my eyes. Kevin was my champion, my confidante, my wingman, and sounding board. He reintroduced me to Mike and encouraged our relationship. If not for Kevin, there never would have been a "Dave and Mike" and without "Dave and Mike," there would never have been Declan and Noah. Our sons only got to meet "Uncle Kevin" once (last summer, when he introduced our then four year old to the joys of the Transformer movie...for which I have since forgiven Kevin!), but they will know of his kindness, his passion, his sharp wit and intelligence, his warm and hearty laugh, and the role he played in our lives -- and in theirs. I love you my friend and miss you more each day.

Disney

October 6, 2012
Another fun trip with Kevin - Gay Days in Disney. Late night snacking.

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