Charlie Kennis, 77, Left His Imprint All Over Lacey

LACEY, NJ — Charlie Kennis built much of Lacey. He opened his own business in town in 1972, building homes for 47 years.

"If you look around this town, you’ll see Kennis’s name everywhere," Mayor Tim McDonald said at Thursday's township meeting. "In fact, I live in a Charlie Kennis house."

Kennis died suddenly Tuesday at age 77. He was active in community affairs and served on the Lacey Board of Education for nine years, according to his obituary.

Kennis's son, Steven, serves as Lacey's deputy mayor. Township Committee members shared Thursday the impact Charlie Kennis left on them.

Committeeman Mark Dykoff said Kennis's houses stood out when he was looking to move from North to South Jersey. He said they were different from other homes.

"Charlie was a leader, serving in many, many positions, giving his time," Dykoff said. "He’ll be sorely missed."

Kennis was born and raised in South Hackensack, graduating from Hackensack High School and Fairleigh Dickinson University. He served in the Vietnam War in the Army.

He was always interested in a homebuilding career. Kennis, in his early years, worked for various companies in the industry, including a year in Cincinnati for Ryan Homes. In 1972, he moved to Lacey and opened his own business.

Charlie was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Ann Kennis, his sister, Mary Ann and his son, Gary. He is survived by his wife, Marion, son, Steven, and his dear grandchildren, Trey and Keira. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Margaret McCloud, and her children, Shawn McCloud and Kristin Renkin and their families.

"Charlie was a friend to all and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the crew at the Lacey Diner," his obituary states. "In the last two years, he spent many enjoyable days with his pal, the family beagle, Dipper."

In lieu of flowers, Kennis's family would appreciate donations to Popcorn Park Zoo, the Lacey Food Bank or any local organization. Visitation was scheduled for 1-4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 at the Riggs Funeral Home (130 North Route 9, Forked River).

Each Township Committee member offered kind words to Steven Kennis. Nicholas Juliano gave him a hug.

"Normally I address him as deputy mayor up here for decorum. But tonight he’s Steve, and I’m always Pete, because I love the guy," said Peter Curatolo. "If he told me to walk through a frozen lake for him, I’d do it."

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