December 15, 1964 - April 30, 2023
Service
A Celebration of Life service followed by a reception will be held Sunday, June 11, 2023, at 4:30 p.m., at New Life Church Gahanna
Bob Kennedy, Class of 1987, died unexpectedly at his home Sunday, April 30. He was 58.
Bob was well known for his public address announcement duties at Otterbein (football, basketball and volleyball), The Ohio State University (where he was known as the voice of Buckeye football but also worked with baseball, men's and women's soccer, field hockey, women's hockey games, and as a fill-in for men's basketball) and Columbus Clippers, and for his on-air time, most recently at WDLR Radio.
A 1983 graduate of Big Walnut High School, Bob was recruited by the late Dr. Jim Grissinger for Otterbein's new speech communications department.
As an Otterbein student, and in the 36 years since, Bob was behind a microphone announcing games in his inimitable style. Fellow classmate and former OC basketball player Steve Brown noted that Bob was, "a true professional in his profession." Whether it was Div. III or Div. I, a crowd of a few hundred or a packed house at Ohio Stadium, Bob took pride in his work, prepared thoroughly, and strived to give his best. And in doing so, he elevated the game for players and fans alike.
In his GoFundMe tribute, former OC basketball player Phil Susi '05 wrote that it was Bob's kindness and his passion and energy for his craft and life that stand out to him.
In 2002, the "O" Club bestowed upon Bob its highest honor, the Outstanding Service Award, for his contributions to Otterbein athletics.
Robert Alan Kennedy was born in Columbus on December 15, 1964, and raised in Sunbury. He was the only child of the late Paul Roger Kennedy (1928-2002) and Betty Jane Middleton Kennedy (1931-2016).
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his grandparents, Wm. Robert and Bessie Wilkins Kennedy, and Harold V. and Myrtle Gordon Middleton; aunts, Phyllis A. Middleton and Sandra (Philip) Middleton Coolbaugh; and uncles, Wm. Richard and John R. Kennedy.
Bob is survived by cousins, Shelley (Steve) Cain and Patsy Polito; and nieces Alexis Pfaub and Alyssa Pfaub.
A Celebration of Life service followed by a reception will be held Sunday, June 11, 2023, at 4:30 p.m., at New Life Church, 3690 N Stygler Rd, Gahanna, Ohio 43230. Guests are encouraged to wear team apparel.
Bob's cremains will be buried privately at Maple Grove Cemetery in Mechanicsburg, where his parents and grandparents are buried.
A GoFundMe page was established in Bob's memory at https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-bob-kennedy
Condolences
Nancy S Paul - Jun 12, 2023
Bob was the first person I met in the Communication Department when I arrived for my interview. We've been friends ever since. Rest in peace my friend.
Karen Lovett - May 31, 2023
Sitting next to Bob for over 30 years at Otterbein in the pressbox I got to know him well. Any time someone calls me "kid" I will think of Bob!!!
Trevor - May 13, 2023
I never met Bob in person, but when I called him to get a story for my book. Bob responded, “why on earth would anyone want to read about me.” He was a very humble man a a terrific announcer. His booming voice will always be remembered.
Larry Gamby - May 9, 2023
Saddened to hear of the loss of this great person. I worked with Bob on many occasions either helping him with announcing or announcing for him at Columbus Eagles, Columbus Clippers or OHSAA Events. He was always funny, quick to joke and loved being with people and talking about many things outside of sports. Helped him move from his house to another location two to three years ago. This was a complete shock to me to hear of his sudden passing. I’ll miss him a lot. Rest my friend. You now have the best seat to broadcast and announce in the world. Love, condolences and prayers to the entire Kennedy family.
Patricia Landsparger - May 8, 2023
A brief time we worked together but the memories will last and will bring light to a dark day. I wish you peace and happiness as well as your family and friends.
Dave Smith - May 8, 2023
Bob will be greatly missed. Always had a smile and kind word to say. Knew him when I coached football at Otterbein. A great voice and a kind heart! RIP Bob