Donald Kennedy "Pappy" was born January 21, 1926, at Jameson Memorial Hospital, New Castle, PA. He was raised by his grandparents, John and Estella Kennedy. Donald attended Shenango Township schools starting at Hill School in Castlewood, attending until 10th grade. He then joined the CCC, Civilian Conservation Corps. He was assigned to work in a quarry in Sligo, PA. When WWII began the CCC shut down. Shortly after that he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, completing his boot training in Bainbridge, MD. He was then stationed at the U.S. Naval Air Base in Deland, FL. He was assigned the Aviation Ordinance Dept. Their duty was to keep the planes in tip top shape to prepare them for bombing missions. While at the base he decided to complete his education. He completed his GED course and received a diploma from the U.S. Armed Forces Institute. He was discharged from the U.S. Navy July 23, 1946, returning home to Castlewood. Within the following year, he met the love of his life, Ruth Polding, in downtown New Castle. Don's grandfather was a carpenter and he decided to follow in his footsteps. Don and his grandfather helped to erect many different structures in the area. During a city wide revival at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, Donald committed his life to the Lord. He began attending The Alliance Church on Pearson Street. The church was growing and decided to move. Don and many of the men from the church helped to erect the First Alliance Church on Mission Meade Drive in NC. Donald attended services faithfully. He served as usher, Sunday school teacher, youth leader, trustee and elder. On many occasions he served communion to the shut in church members. He also enjoyed driving the van to transport elderly and youth to Wednesday and Sunday night services. It brought him great joy working for the church and he loved his church family dearly. Don's hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping and bird watching on the porch. Don and Ruth enjoyed traveling with family. One of his favorite trips was to Yellowstone National Park. He enjoyed fishing on Lake Erie with his son, Gene. He was a charter member of the Castlewood Rod & Gun Club. His survivors include his wife, Ruth of 67 years. Daughter, Laurie (Greg) Kunselman, son Gene (April) Kennedy, five grandchildren, Erik (Toni) Kunselman, Jonathan (Michelle) Kunselman, Joshua (Becky) Ballard, Natalie Kennedy, Sarah Kennedy. Four great grandchildren Matthew Case, Adam Ballard, Caleb Ballard and Keegan Rader. Visitation for Donald's family and friends will be at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105, Saturday March 23, 2019 from 10:00 - 11:30 am with the service immediately following. Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.