Michael Joseph Kenific, Sr.

Michael Kenific Sr., 76, of Schenectady, New York, formerly of Albany, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born in Albany on June 2, 1949, Michael was the son of the late Arthur and Elizabeth Kenific. A proud graduate of Philip Schuyler High School, he spent most of his life in the Capital Region, living in Albany and Waterford before settling in Schenectady. Independent by nature, he was self-employed for many years. Michael found deep satisfaction in life’s simpler joys, especially time spent at his camp on Sacandaga Lake and frequent visits to Rivers Casino. Above all, he treasured the moments shared with his family and his beloved cats, Oreo and Cookie.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Nancy Struensee; his children, Michael Kenific Jr., Lisa (Steve) Kurtelawicz, Dennis Kenific, Darcy Kenific, Stacy Kenific, and Chrissy Struensee; and his niece, whom he loved as a daughter, Lisa Mock. He was the brother of Richard (Lynn) Kenific and is also survived by his former wife, Diane Kenific. Michael’s legacy continues through his eleven grandchildren—Nicholas, Michael III, Rebecca, Alex, Steven, Lizzie, Tyler, Ashlynn, Dylan, Ethan, and Zoe—and his six great-grandchildren: Grayson, Christopher, Mia, Kylie, Arianna, and Charlotte.

He was predeceased by his siblings Elaine Hughes, Claire Hall, and Paul Kenific, and his former spouse, Sarah Dorgan.