Obituary of George E. Kener

     George E. Kener, 75, of Utica, passed away on unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at Rome Memorial Hospital.

     George was born in Fort Monmouth, NJ, on December 24, 1947, the son of George C. and Beata (Becker) Kener. He was raised and educated in Whitesboro and was a graduate of Whitesboro High School. On August 1, 1970, George was united in marriage with Irene J. Trunfio at St. Peter’s Church in N. Utica. At one time, George was employed with Remington Arms in Ilion and for over 32 years until his retirement, with Utica National Insurance Group. George was an avid outdoor sportsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping. He was also a sports enthusiast who enjoyed golf, bowling, watching the NY Yankees, NY Mets and was an avid NY Giants fan. George found comfort in attending Mass with his wife at St. Peter’s Church in N. Utica.

     Mr. Kener is survived by his beloved wife, Irene; brother and sister-in-law, William F. and June Kener of Atlanta, GA; brother-in-law, Dr. Robert McCormick of Syracuse; four nephews, Jesse McCormick, Billy Kener, Andrew Kener and Scott Kener and his fishing and hunting buddies and dearest friends, Mike Worn, Joe Amico and John Kleaka. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Dr. Toni McCormick.

     Visitation for family and friends is Tuesday, October 24, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 noon at the conclusion of visitation. He will be laid to rest in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Whitesboro. Those wishing to donate in George’s memory, please consider Ducks Unlimited, 1 Waterfowl Way, Memphis, TN 38120 (donate.ducks.org) or to a charity of your choice.

     Irene wishes to express her sincerest gratitude to her cousin Janice Zarnoch and special friends, Laurie, Camley and Renee for the loving compassion and outpouring of support you have shown her during this most difficult time.