Elliott: R. I. P. Ralph Kennedy, a key to 1976 Kendal Eagles OBA title

Ralph Kennedy was a long-time dominant arm for the Kendal Eagles.

August 13, 2023

By Bob Elliott

Canadian Baseball Network

The Kingston Lakeview Indians lost all of five games on their way to the Baseball Ontario 1967 senior title in Orillia.

They dropped five decisions all season -- three to the Belleville Lombanks and two to the Brockville Braves.

However, the sixth game of the season on the schedule was a visit to Kendal’s Jackson Parks which had the Kingston nine nervous. That’s because Ralph Kennedy was on the mound for the Kendal Eagles that Saturday afternoon at Jackson Park.

The 6-foot-4 Kennedy struck out 11 through seven innings and walking only two with Kingston clinging to a 2-1 lead. Kingston scored in the eighth and the final score was not reflective of how everyone was impressed with Kennedy’s first seven innings.

We are remembering Ralph Kennedy, 77, because he passed away on Thursday. We extend deepest sympathies to his family.

Kennedy in action ….

Kennedy pitched for the Eagles in 1976 when Kendal won the OBA senior D title beating Hagersville. OBA president Jim Lutton presented the trophy to Bill Robinson.

In the semi-final, Kennedy’s Kendal team knocked off the Renfrew Red Sox 11-1 with him on the mound.

In that 1976 championship season, he made nine starts going 4-3 with a 2.24 ERA as he walked 17 and struck out 50 in 69 innings. At the plate, Kennedy hit .364 with a double and three RBIs.

Northcutt Elliott Funeral notice

Ralph Kennedy

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on Thursday Aug. 10, 2023 at the age of 77

Beloved husband of Jane (nee Foster) for almost 57 years. Cherished father of Karen VanMeer (Rick) and Shari Kinney. Proud grandfather of Justin Kinney, Laura VanMeer (Cory Langstaff), Nicole VanMeer and Sarah Kinney. Dear brother to Sheila Kennedy (Stephen Hawes). Predeceased by siblings Velda, Ken and Cecil.

Ralph will be remembered for his passion for baseball, love of family and quick wit.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sept. 17, 2023 from 1-to-4 pm at the Kendal Community Centre, 6742 Newtonville Road, Kendal. Memorial Donations may be made to The Cancer Society or a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Northcutt Elliott Funeral Home, 53 Division St. N. Bowmanville.