Alumnus Ronald “Ron” Lewis Kennedy, RPH, passed away on December 7, 2021. A 1968 graduate of the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy, he was awarded the Distinguished Coloradan Award from the School in 2014 in recognition of lifetime achievement in the field of pharmacy.
Ron was past president of the Colorado Pharmacist Society from 2005-06, and later was the 2013 Colorado Pharmacists Society and American Pharmacists Association Bowl of Hygeia Community Service Award recipient, which recognizes pharmacists in each state who possess outstanding records of civic leadership in their communities.
He took great pride in having built his small business into Colorado’s first pharmacy which provided standardized pharmaceutical care to nursing homes and assisted living centers. He also enjoyed his volunteer work in the office of Colorado State Senator John Andrews.
The biggest source of joy in Ron’s life was spending time with his wife of 55 years, Karen, and their family. He could be found in the bleachers and on the sidelines, no matter the weather or distance from home. Ron and Karen often planned vacations around the grandkids and their travel teams, accompanying them to countless out of state tournaments.
Ron also enjoyed volunteering at school with his grandkids when he could. One year, Ron and his daughter teamed up to coach his grandson’s Lego League team which the kids named “The Fighting Stinging Crystal Narwhals.” He left that experience with a lot of laughter and a renewed sense of respect for teachers everywhere.
Make-A-Wish is an organization that was very dear to Ron’s heart. He was known to stop families wearing Make-A-Wish gear when he saw them on vacation to let them know how special they were and typically gave them some extra spending money for treats on him. When drawing names for Christmas gifts, all Ron ever wanted was for whomever drew his name to make a donation in his name to Make-A-Wish.
Ron’s faith was the foundation of his life and he never hesitated to share his conviction in the gospel and the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus. Prayer was an important, daily part of his life. He leaves a legacy of kindness, innovation, and care.
March 31, 2024