Stephen P. Kenney, 72, a longtime Poughkeepsie resident died unexpectedly at home on Saturday, December 24, 2022.

Born May 27, 1950, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was the son of John F. Kenney II and Helen C. Kenney.

Mr. Kenney received degrees in engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of California, Berkeley. He lived in Berkeley from 1972 to 1985.

Always one to encourage his loved ones to prioritize personal fulfillment and kindness to oneself and others over societal expectations, he left his job as a civil engineer to clean pools and teach swimming lessons, which led him to pursue a career as a teacher.

Stephen found great joy in sharing his love for mathematics with high school students in the Wappingers Central School District where he taught for many years, retiring in 2015.

He was an avid swimmer and yoga instructor, and using his background in mathematics, he enjoyed constructing geometric designs.

Survivors include his wife, Marianne H. Begemann, of Poughkeepsie; five children, Alan E. Kenney (Sara Jane) of Queens, Sharon P. Kenney of New York City, Aurora H. Kenney of Ulster Park, and Sam and Jack W. Kenney, both of Albany; brother, John F. Kenney III (Mary) of Georgia; sister, Claire Kenney of Philadelphia; and several nieces and nephews of whom he was very fond. His immediate family meant everything to him.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

Memorial visitation will be from 11 AM to 1 PM, Saturday, December 31st at Sweet's Funeral Home, Rte. 9, Hyde Park.

In lieu of flowers, Stephen's family respectfully requests memorial donations to the Dutchess County SPCA, 636 Violet Ave., Hyde Park, NY 12538. (www.dcspca.com)

To send an online condolence, or for directions, please visit Stephen's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.