ChapCare

I am heartbroken over the unexpected passing of my friend, John J. Kennedy. I knew him as a strong advocate for progressive social justice issues, including equal access to healthcare for all.

Recommended by the City of Pasadena to be a member of the ChapCare Board of Directors, he served from 2004 to 2010, and he was elected to Chair of the Board at the end of his time with us. He was an ardent supporter of healthcare access for the underserved, and as such, was delighted to see the health care evolution (or revolution) known as the Affordable Care Act signed into law by his friend, President Barack Obama.

As ChapCare’s Chief Executive Officer, I worked closely with John while he was on the Board of Directors. John was passionate for the people, places and causes that he held near to his heart. Northwest Pasadena and health care access for underserved and at-risk populations were just a few of the many topics that we discussed at length. He supported ChapCare’s medical, dental, behavioral health, and other clinical services as a fundamental resource for all residents of Pasadena and the surrounding areas. John saw physical and mental well-being as a way that underserved people and neighborhoods could achieve their best quality of life and build stronger communities.

Along with me, everyone at ChapCare sends our condolences to the Kennedy family, the neighborhoods of Northwest and greater Pasadena, the elected officials and staff of the City of Pasadena, and all who were touched by his shining light that was extinguished much too soon.

We will miss you, John!

Margaret (Margie) B. Martinez

Kin Hui

My name is Kin Hui. I was shocked to hear John passed away. When I heard the news, I suddenly had flashbacks of when I spent good times with John. We laughed a lot whenever we were together. I am going to miss his laugh. Even though my heart is heavy and sad, I know he is in a better place with God now.

I met John when he was elected as District 3 Councilmember of Pasadena in 2013. John cared about his community – he loved to help and support the people in need. John inspired me through his philanthropic efforts. I witnessed John donate to underprivileged students, orphanages, and homeless people for many years. He truly earned my respect, as he has a true heart for people.

This is a difficult moment for his family. My condolences go out to John’s family. John, I am so proud to be your friend. I know we will see each other again one day.

It is with a heavy heart that I write this remembrance of our beloved John J. Kennedy. I was fortunate to have known John for what seems like a lifetime after becoming close friends with and a colleague of his sister Lena. Lena invited me into a world of kindness, love and compassion while always remembering that in life you must keep moving and keep getting things done. You must do things