BISMARCK, N.D. - Sarah Jean Kennedy, of Bismarck, N.D., was called home to be with the Lord early in the morning of May 23, 2010.
She was born May 16, 1991, in Warsaw, to Mark and Judy Baron Kennedy.
She spent her early life playing with animals and making friends everywhere she went. Much of her time was devoted to befriending those who had stood alone or those with special needs. Her heart was kind and compassionate.
In 1998, she moved with family to Bismarck, N.D., where she resided until her passing. She attended Shiloh Christian School and graduated in spite of the long struggle with her cancer. There were many activities that interested her including people, music and animals. Following these interests, she candy-striped at the hospital and volunteered at BECEP. She loved children and dreamed someday of starting her own family.
At the start of her sophomore year, she became ill and was treated for an array of possibilities. Many tests later, she was diagnosed with Adenocarcinoma, or colorectal cancer. She was referred to and treated at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. She endured many surgeries and many discomforts but all through this time her brave and bright spirit shone through the pain.
This young lady was a shining light and a happy spirit. She was spontaneous and carefree. Each day was fresh and brought something new. It was pure pleasure to hear the twinkle of her flute wafting through the house then followed by the banging of chopsticks on the piano keys.
She will be greatly missed by her parents; a brother, Matthew Kennedy, San Diego, Calif.; a sister, Elizabeth (and spouse Daryl) Winkler, Bismarck; grandparents, Roger and Donna Kennedy and Hazen and Larry Baron, all of Bismarck; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and two nephews, Konnor and Kristopher Winkler. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, LoisAnn Heimann, and an aunt, Lugene Baron.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Century Baptist Church, Bismarck, with the Revs. Paul Nather and Dr. Gordon Stork officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Bismarck.
Calling is from 1 to 7 p.m. today at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, where a prayer service will be at 7 p.m. Calling will continue one hour prior to the service Wednesday at the church.
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Memorials may be given to the benefit account for Sarah Kennedy at Capital Credit Union, 3101 N. 11th St, Bismarck, ND 58503.
Condolences may be sent via www.parkwayfuneral.com
