Jack Kennedy

Jack died unexpectedly in his sleep on the morning of August 6, 2019. Born in California and raised in New York City, he built a life for himself in Santa Barbara after moving here in 1979 to study painting at City College. A promising art student, Jack gave it up to learn electric bass. Playing in various bands in Isla Vista in the 80s, he was a founding member of local blues powerhouse The Pontiax. After touring the US, Canada, and Europe with the band, he picked up construction work in Santa Barbara and dug in deep. Though he never completely gave up music, his contractor’s license took him into the world of estate building in Montecito, Hope Ranch, and Santa Ynez. He learned fast and worked hard at everything he tried his hand at. Jack’s presence filled the room, and he knew how to live. He loved dogs and cats, giving his friends grief, cooking for family and friends, working on his pool game at Don Q, and being a die-hard Raiders/Lakers/Yankees fan. But most of all he loved his wife, Eden, and his son, Jackson. “I’m a lucky man.” Memorial service and reception will take place on Sunday, September 15 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara, 1535 Santa Barbara Street.