John Kennedy, age 89, former resident of Hyde Park and Rhinebeck, passed away in South Bend, Indiana, on December 5, 2023. He was surrounded by his children and family.

An accomplished public servant, he was Hyde Park Town Justice for over 10 years; Deputy Commissioner of Elections; Chairman of the Dutchess County Legislature; an attorney for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and Dutchess County Attorney. John was a Notre Dame Graduate, Air Force Veteran and held a Law Degree from Fordham University. He moved to Dutchess County in the 1970s when he was offered a position as county attorney by Bill Bartles.

As Chairman of the Legislature, he was instrumental in the creation of Dutchess Stadium. Until August 2023 he lived in Rhinebeck and Hyde Park. John was a member of the American Legion, the Knights of Columbus, and multiple Catholic Parishes in Dutchess County during that time. He is survived by his wife Martha, 3 children, and  3 grandchildren and will be missed.

Friends and relatives may call from 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9pm on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Sweet's Funeral Home, Rte. 9, Hyde Park. The Requiem Mass will begin at 10 am on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at The Church of the Holy Trinity, 775 Main St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12603, followed by interment in the family plot at St. Peter's Cemetery, Poughkeepsie, NY with military honors.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Rte. 9, Hyde Park. To send a condolence or for directions please visit us at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.