John Edward "Ed" Kennedy

John Edward "Ed" Kennedy, a charter member of our Society, died peacefully in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on July 28 1999. An Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Saskatchewan, Ed received his honours BA in mathematics and physics at Queen's University and an MSc at McGill. He used this education in many distinguished careers: as research physicist for the National Research Council and for the Defense Research Medical Laboratory, as Professor of physics at the University of New Brunwick and at the University of Saskatchewan, and as Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Saskatchewan. Ed's scientific publications ranged from spectrographic analysis to military footwear, aircraft refueling, solar eclipses, and the history of astronomy. At the University of Saskatchewan, he was noted for "putting the teaching of astronomy at the University on a firm basis and for reactivating the Saskatoon branch of the Royal Astronomical Society and creating a popular interest in astronomy that brings thousands of people each year to the Observatory". Active nationally in the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) for 44 years, Ed contributed as editor, secretary and national president. In addition, he was a member of the International Astronomical Union, where he served on the Commission 41, The History of Astronomy. In 1980-82 Ed was Chair of the Heritage Committee of CASCA. He continued his interest in the history of astronomy through research, writing and publishing to the end. Among the honours he received were election as Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, a special Lifetime Service Adward from the RASC, the Canada Centennial Medal, and a Canadian Silver Jubilee Medal. In all his interests, Ed was a compassionate, trusted mentor, noted for his integrity. To the many people who were privileged to know him, Ed leaves a legacy of love, support, friendship, appreciation of life - and a host of good stories.

Predeceased by his loving wife, Caroline MacKay, and sisteres Grace and Anna. Lovingly remembered by his wife Virginia, three children, eight grandchild and two stepdaughters.

Charlene Heisler   Tables of Contents

Cassiopeia -- 1999-DS