Bruce Kennedy passed away suddenly on March 14, 2016. He was born in Glendale, California on June 18, 1951 to Douglas and Charlotte Moore Kennedy and spent his early childhood growing up in Whittier, along with sisters Janet (SPHS '71) and Karen (SPHS '73). In 1965, the Kennedy family moved to South Pasadena where Bruce attended South Pasadena Junior High School and South Pasadena High School. While in high school, Bruce played on the basketball team. He graduated in 1969 and went on to Pasadena City College to continue his basketball career. As a junior, Bruce transferred to the University of Redlands and continued playing on the men's basketball team, earning All SCIAC Conference honors both years. Bruce graduated in 1974 with a major in history and minor in art.

Bruce met Jennifer Miller of Ontario at Redlands and they were married in 1976. They lived in Upland where Bruce worked at JM McDonalds. In 1978, Bruce and his father formed the DW Kennedy Company and represented numerous lines in the paint industry for over 20 years. When the company retired, Bruce returned to his college major, education. He was hired by the Etiwanda School District where he taught special education, first at West Heritage Elementary, and then for 18 years at DW Long Elementary.

Bruce was the proud father of three beautiful daughters, Kelsey, Emily, and Lindy. As the dad of three girls, Bruce fiercely loved and protected his ladies; proudly supporting them coaching, and cheering them, in soccer and volleyball. Nothing gave him greater joy than celebrating the wins and consoling the losses. Bruce coached numerous AYSO soccer teams and many 5th grade basketball teams for West Heritage and DW Long Elementary schools.

Bruce's interests were very diverse; from Disneyland history and memorabilia, to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. An avid reader, Bruce enjoyed subjects on sports legends, war history, movie trivia, and mysteries. Bruce was a collector of old and rare Disney artifacts, old photographs, music of many genres, and favorite old toys. Bruce loved to draw and spent most of his free time in his man-cave painting birdhouses, Christmas ornaments, wooden birds and just about anything that needed a touch of color. He also enjoyed wrestling with 'The Claw' and his granddaughters, Dylan and Harper; hearing them squeal and giggle made his day.

Bruce will be remembered for his unique sense of humor, honest listening skills and sharp memory. When talking with Bruce, you knew he was truly listening and would remember the details of your conversation. He had a caring heart and was truly a gentle giant of a man. He will be dearly missed by family, friends, colleagues, and students.

Bruce is survived by his wife, Jennifer Kennedy; children Kelsey (Bryan) Aylor, Emily Kennedy, Lindy Kennedy; granddaughters Dylan and Harper Aylor; sister Karen (John) Haglund; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Charlotte Kennedy and sister Janet Kennedy.