Dr. John Wayne (“Mike”/”Cutter”) Kennedy, 82, Marion, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. He was born in Aurora, Indiana, on Friday, July 21, 1944, to John C. and Mary Alice (Young) Kennedy. On October 27, 1996, he married Linda Patterson Hamilton.
Mike graduated from Aurora High School and went on to attend Indiana University, where he earned his Medical degree in 1968 after years of unwavering hard work and dedication. He was an avid supporter of Gas City Concerts at the Park, St. Paul Auctions, MPO, Help the Hopeful, We Care, and many other philanthropic endeavors. Mike began his medical career in Hartford City before starting the paramedic program at Marion General Hospital. He continued his work at Marion General Hospital as the Director of the Emergency Room and opened his own private practice in Marion. He also served as the Grant County Health Officer for more than 40 years. Throughout his career, John delivered countless babies in Grant County and remained deeply humble, always honored to care for those in need. He worked in fast‑track medicine in the ER and spent many years serving local nursing homes, industrial medicine programs, and hospice facilities. Mike was proud to be the physician for Marion Community Schools and athletic programs for many years.
Mike was an avid golfer who enjoyed playing at Meshingomesia Golf Course He cherished being a Blue Blazer champion alongside his son, Aron, as well as his two hole-in-ones. He and Linda were members of Tippecanoe Country Club. He loved having a house for the grandchildren at Disney-though he may have occasionally visited Disney without them. Mike enjoyed traveling, boating on Lake Tippecanoe, and spending over 20 years at the lake house he and Linda shared. He adored taking his dog, Rally, on boat rides and car rides with Linda. Together, Mike and Linda found joy in trips to Bora Bora, Napa, New York City, Alaska, and many other destinations. He especially loved going on cruises. He was also a devoted IU fan and a Navy Veteran. Recently, Mike and Linda became the proud owners of the 9th Street Cafe. Above all, Mike adored his family, friends, and community. Every accomplishment, adventure, and act of service was rooted in his love for them.
Survivors include his wife, Linda Kennedy of Marion; daughter, Holly (Doug) Currie of Dallas, TX; stepdaughter, Lindsay Roesly of Marion; stepson, Tyler (Jessica) Hamilton of Marion; grandchildren, Jack Kennedy, Sloan Currie, Harrison Roesly, Liv Roesly, Torrin Brown, and Cooper Hamilton; beloved dog, Rally Kennedy; and many nieces and nephews who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John C. and Mary Alice Kennedy; son, Aron Kennedy; brother, Robert “Bob” Kennedy; and sister, Jo Ann Coggeshall.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate John ‘s life will begin at 3:00 pm with Mike Hamilton officiating.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Grant County Humane Society, 505 S Miller Ave, Marion, IN 46953; Cancer Services, 305 S Norton St, Marion, IN 46952; or American Heart Association, 8720 Castle Creek Pkwy E Dr #100, Indianapolis, IN 46250.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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