Mike Kennedy was born on December 23, 1942, in Cherokee, Iowa, to Gertrude and Dewey Kennedy. He lost his dad at the age of 5 and was raised by a strong and faithful mother that taught him the importance of strong family values.

Mike attended Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa, where he earned his degree in Business. After college, he found his way to Sioux City, Iowa, where he began what would become a long and dedicated career with State Farm Insurance as an Auto Claims Adjuster.

On April 25, 1970, Mike married Jan Schumacher, the love of his life. Together, they built a life of faith filled with love, family, friendship, and countless memories. Their marriage was blessed with two amazing children, Jeff and Lisa, who became the center of Mike and Jan's world.

For the next 34 years, Mike devoted himself to his work at State Farm. He was known for his strong work ethic, often putting in 10-hour days and always giving his best to his employer. But perhaps his greatest impact at State Farm was the impression he left on the many people he mentored along the way. His willingness to share his knowledge and help others succeed earned him the respect and appreciation of those who worked alongside him.

Outside of work, Mike loved anything with a motor that went fast. Some of his fondest memories were made boating on the river and at Okoboji with family and friends. Those days were filled with laughter, friendship, adventure, and memories that would last a lifetime.

Mike also enjoyed riding motorcycles and snowmobiles, a passion he shared with his son, Jeff. Whether it was wrenching in the garage or enjoying the winter trails, these experiences gave father and son time together doing something they both loved, and memories Jeff will carry with him always.

Perhaps one of Mike's greatest joys was being a grandfather. He was blessed with three grandsons and one beautiful granddaughter, and he took great pride in watching them grow. Mike was often found in the stands, at school programs, activities, and events, proudly supporting his grandchildren. The memories they made together will be cherished by his grandchildren for years to come, just as they will carry with them the love and support their grandpa gave so freely.

Above all, Mike was a family man. His greatest joys came from the life he built with Jan. Upon retirement they traveled extensively and wintered in Treasure Island Florida for 15 years. He was proud of his family and treasured the time they spent together, especially the annual trip to Bridges Bay and the holidays. His love for them was steady and unwavering, just like the quiet strength he brought to everything he did.

Left to cherish their memories of Mike are his wife of 56 years Janis, their son Jeff (Jody) and daughter Lisa (Rich); 4 grandchildren Jack, Andy, Daniel, and Karly. Additionally, he is survived by his twin sister Linda and Sister Karen and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Gert and Dewey Kennedy, sisters Jean, Mary Lou, and Edith; brother Tom; in-laws Jack and Hazel Schumacher and brother-in-law Steven Schumacher.

Visitation for Mike will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2026, at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel, followed by a 7 p.m. Vigil Service. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sioux City. Private burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Mitchell House in Sioux City, IA and the Alzheimer’s Association of South Dakota 5915 S Remington Pl #110, Sioux Falls, SD 57108.