Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Ella Mae (Peak) Kenny, 91, of Shepherd, Michigan, passed away peacefully in her home with family on the Feast of the Archangels, September 29, 2026.
One of Ella’s favorite songs was “The Old Rugged Cross.” In a sense, her entire life was framed by the Cross: she was born on Good Friday, April 19, 1935, in Shepherd, Michigan. She clung to Christ, who helped her carry her own cross, throughout her life. We pray she has now exchanged that cross for the crown of victory.
Faith was the cornerstone around which Ella’s life was built, and what carried her through each day. From a young age, Ella used her gifts for others. Whether it was through her artistic talents, beautiful landscaping, fully-stocked pantry, or care for her family and home, Ella poured herself out for as long as she was able. As a student, she was known for her sharp mind, going on to graduate early and helping teach her classmates. She would spend the day baking donuts and other goodies before taking them to visit those in need. Hosting her large family was a labor of love, and when the home no longer held everyone, she moved gatherings to the township hall. None of her family will probably ever taste a pie as good as hers again, or baked with as much care.
On November 15, 1952, at seventeen and a half years old, Ella married Robert Duane Kenny in Augusta, Georgia. They returned to their hometown, where they built their home and family near those they loved. Duane survives her, mourning the loss of his wife of seventy-three years and describing her as “the best.”
Ella is also survived by their nine children: Susan (Dennis) McQueen, Theresa (Robert) Dell, Rita (Randy) Mitchell, Robert Kenny, Roberta (Kelvin) Sunday, Ron Kenny, Diane (Thomas) Quinlan, Della (Jon) Seeley, and John (Martha) Kenny; twenty-six grandchildren; fifty-three great-grandchildren; and ten great-great-grandchildren. Family gatherings won’t be the same without her at the euchre table. Ella loved unconditionally with a humility and strength that left a lasting mark on those around her; her presence will be deeply missed.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ivan and Clara (Phelps) Peak; all ten of her siblings; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Ella carried her love for them always, whether through her prayers, care for their graves, or cherished memories.
Visitation
Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 4, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Berry Funeral Home, 106 W. Wright Avenue, Shepherd, Michigan. A vigil prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM, followed by the rosary.
Funeral
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 5, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 7631 W. North County Line Road, Elwell, Michigan, with Rev. Fr. Thomas Held officiating. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at the church from 10:00 AM until Mass begins. Burial will follow at the adjoining St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery.
In Lieu of Flowers
In lieu of flowers, Ella requested prayers for the repose of her soul. Donations toward having Masses offered in her memory may be made through the funeral home, or you may contact any Catholic church directly to have a Mass offered in her name.
