Obituary of Blake "Zeke" Kennedy

We are heartbroken and inconsolable as we announce the death of Blake (Zeke) Kennedy of Rusagonis and Yoho Lake. Blake died, surrounded by the love of his adoring family and the music of Bruce Springsteen, in the palliative care unit of the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton on June 10, 2025, after a short, intense battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 74. 

Blake is survived by Maureen, his loving wife of 55 years; his favourite son, Aaron, and wife Karen, of Quispamsis; his favourite daughter, Sarah, of New Maryland; his favourite granddaughter, Kelsey, and partner, Chris, of Fredericton; his sister, Joanne, and husband Lee, of Grand Bay-Westfield; and his brother, Kevin, and wife Lisa of Rothesay; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by parents Jerry and Ruth; brother Jerdy; and sister Eileen.

Blake spent 32 years as a teacher in the Oromocto school system, at Hubbard Avenue Elementary, Waasis Road Junior High, and Oromocto High School, where he also served as vice-principal. A two-time athlete of the year at St. Thomas University, Blake was an amazing goaltender, who once faced 92 shots in a loss to Université de Moncton.

Blake was an ardent fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Yankees. He was also a tireless advocate for the rights of the 10 per cent of the population who are blessed to be left-handed. As he often said: “Everybody is born right-handed; only the greatest overcome it.”

In the difficult days since his death, we have received so many messages from people whose lives he touched: students who cite him as their favourite teacher; teammates who call him the ultimate competitor; and family members who cherished him.

We want to thank Dr. Wiley, Dr. Stymiest, Dr. Galvis and Stephanie; the nurses in “The Garage” (Medical Transitional Unit), most notably Shanaia; and the nurses from 4SW, especially Diane. We are forever grateful to Dr. Khaleduzzaman. His kindness and compassion during the worst days of our lives will never be forgotten.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 12 pm at Holy Family Catholic Parish Church, 1500 Hanwell Road, Hanwell, NB, with Fr. John Jennings officiating. A reception to celebrate his life will follow from 4:30-7 pm in The Great Hall at George Martin Hall at St. Thomas University.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oromocto Funeral Home and online condolences may be left at www.oromoctofh.com

Donations in Zeke’s memory may be made to the Brendon Oreto Foundation or to a charity of the donor’s choice.