Obituary of Mary Constance Kemler Kent

Connie Kent died peacefully October 6, 2022 at age 91 in Happy Valley, OR after many years with Alzheimer’s Disease. Connie was born April 9, 1931 in Chicago, IL to Edward O. Kemler and Ethel E. Kemler, joining older brother Edward A. Kemler. She grew up in Wilmette, IL, graduating from New Trier High School in 3 years. Connie attended Northwestern University, which she left at the age of 17 to marry Richard Kent. Connie and Richard moved to New York, initially living in Stuyvesant Town in Manhattan, then in Huntington and ultimately Cold Spring Harbor, New York. Over many years and while raising 3 daughters in Cold Spring Harbor, Connie obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees (C.W. Post College of Long Island University) and a Ph.D. (English and Comparative Literature, Columbia University). She taught English and writing at the high school and college/university levels until she was 80, most recently at the Fashion Institute of Technology of the State University of New York. Connie was active in organizing for adjunct professors’ rights and benefits. Connie married Robert Senkfor in 1982, and they enjoyed many years of adventurous travel and time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Over their years together, Connie and Bob lived in New York City, Salinas-Monterey (CA), and Portland (OR). Connie had a vibrant personality and keen insight into people. She was a strong woman, ahead of her time. Connie had a stylish sense of fashion and a quick sense of humor. She lit up a room with her radiant smile and infectious laugh. While she was open-minded and embraced people from all walks of life, Connie did not tolerate injustice. She loved books, theater, movies, and ice cream. Connie was a devoted fan of Ben and Jerry’s free birthday scoop. Connie is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Robert Senkfor; and by her children and stepchildren, Dana Kent (Bill Monning), Lisa Kent (Joe Viviano), Amy Kent (Steven Daggett), Robb Senkfor (Sheri), and Alex Senkfor (Bob Crosby). Connie is also survived by her adoring grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Laura Kent-Monning (Kevin Smith), Alexandra Kent-Monning, William Kent-Daggett, Colin Kent-Daggett, Emma Senkfor, and Grace Senkfor. She is survived by her great-grandchildren, Riley, Sullivan, and Shaye Smith, who enjoyed Connie’s style and sense of humor. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Dolores Kirby; cousin, Rev. David Cooling; and by many nieces and nephews. Connie’s family would like to thank Providence Hospice, Miracle Heights Senior Living, and Dr. Marian Hodges for their care and support of Connie and her family.