Lorne Kenyon

Jan. 1, 1938 - Sept. 10, 2024

Lorne Robert Kenyon, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away at home - his "little slice of heaven up on the hill" - surrounded by his family on September 10, 2024. He was the first baby born on January 1, 1938, in Winnipeg, Manitoba and went on to live a rich life, full of adventure, friendships, and an unwavering passion for the things that brought him joy. He is survived by his wife, Wanda Maddox; his daughter, Ashley (John) Hulbert, his granddaughter, Avery Allison along with his bonus grandchildren Sarah and Cameron Hulbert and Abby (Matt) Stevens. Lorne is also survived by special friends who are truly a part of his family; Andy, Shelley, Brian, Drew and Luke Mathis of Austin, TX. It would be impossible to list the individuals whose lives were touched by Lorne and his inquisitive, caring nature but they absolutely should be acknowledged. He will be forever loved and remembered by friends from Bellingham to all corners of the United States and around the globe. Lorne’s career took him to libraries at colleges and universities all over the world, where he forged connections with clients who became and remained his friends for 40+ years. He proudly reminded his family often that his work never felt like work because he was always surrounded by friends. These travels took him around the globe seven times and to every U.S. state except Alaska. In recent years, his relationship building skills were used at Bellingham Tennis Club and his daily outings at Whatcom Falls Park / Bayview Cemetery where he formed relationships and regularly added to his email distribution list (with no unsubscribe option offered 😉) to share his sunset and owl photos. As a teen, Lorne's ticket out of Winnipeg was a track scholarship to attend Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas where he also formed lifelong friendships. His post college years consisted of work as a bond trader, English professor, almost finishing his PhD, running with the SMSU track team and his beloved Irish Setters, and finally his career in the book business mentioned above. He had a sneaky sense of humor, loved asking questions and engaging in thoughtful conversations, the color orange, afternoon naps, finding a bargain, and birdwatching —especially owls and hummingbirds. He expressed his joy through reading, running, tennis, and his passion for photography, capturing the ever-changing sunsets from his home. A man of remarkable discipline, Lorne didn’t miss a day of running for more than 50 years, covering 220,000+ miles over the course of his life. Even as his health began to decline, Lorne’s incredible discipline and determination never wavered. Just two days before his passing, he proudly managed 20 squats and 100 sit ups (in bed) demonstrating the strength and resolve that characterized his entire life. Lorne often reflected on how grateful he was for such a remarkable life, and in his final days, expressed his wish for others to celebrate his life, rather than mourn his death. The next time you’re doing something you love, think of him and be grateful for every moment you have to pursue your passions. Lorne will be remembered for his boundless energy, his intellectual curiosity, his kindness and genuine nature, and the many friendships he cultivated throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and a life well-lived beyond his wildest dreams. At Lorne's request, a Celebration of Life will be held at his home on October 12, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Blue Skies for Children in his honor. Had Lorne not had the opportunity to become a runner and attend college his life's trajectory would've been very different. Supporting an organization that helps local children get into sports and meaningful activities, would have brought him great joy. To donate online: https://www.blueskiesforchildren.org/donate1.html - please reference "in memory of Lorne Kenyon" in the message field. If you would like to make a financial donation to Blue Skies for Children by check, you may mail a contribution to the below address referencing "in memory of Lorne Kenyon" in the memo line. Blue Skies for Children 2505 Cedarwood Ave, Ste. 5 Bellingham, WA 98225