John L. Kenrich

John Lewis Kenrich, age 95, passed away on July 25, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication. Born in Lima, Ohio, on October 17, 1929, to Clarence E. and Rowena W. Katterheinrich, John lived a long and fulfilling life.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Betty Jane Kenrich, and great-grandson Arthur Scott Thorpe. He was cherished by his five children: John David (Barbara) Kenrich, Jane Kenrich Donaldson, Kathryn Ann (Vincent) Hulbert, Thomas Roehll (Kamilla) Kenrich, and Walter Clarence (Carmen) Kenrich. He was adored by his 11 grandchildren: Lindsay (Chris) Machado, Ryan (Heather) Ackley, Paul (Catherine) Donaldson, Lauren (Trevor) Simonton, Sarah (Jesse) Thorpe, Ellen (Christian) Dunn, Trey (Lauren) Hulbert, Wynn Kenrich, Taylor Kenrich, Trace Kenrich, and Tatum Kenrich, as well as his eight great-grandchildren: Jack Machado, Matthew Machado, Grant Donaldson, Cole Donaldson, Carson Dunn, Clara Dunn, Camryn Dunn, and Ruby Simonton.

John graduated from Miami University in 1951 with a bachelor’s degree in business and earned his law degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1953. Shortly after graduating, he received a direct commission into the U.S. Army’s Judge Advocate General Corps, where he proudly served as a trial attorney for three years.

Following his military service, John embarked on a distinguished legal career, beginning at The B.F. Goodrich Company in Akron, Ohio, where he served as Assistant Counsel. In 1965, he joined W.R. Grace & Co. in Cincinnati as Group Counsel of the Specialty Products Group, which later became part of Chemed Corporation in 1971. John dedicated the remainder of his career to Chemed, retiring in 1991 as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer. He also served on the board of Chemed Corporation and several private corporations.

Outside of his professional endeavors, John was deeply involved in his community, serving on numerous boards including the Better Business Bureau of Greater Cincinnati, Miami University School of Business Advisory Council, University of Cincinnati College of Law Board of Visitors, Franciscan Sisters of the Poor Foundation Area Council of Trustees, and the Ohio River Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation Board of Governors. He also served on the Board of Trustees and as Treasurer of the Presbyterian Church of Wyoming.

Beyond his professional work, John had an incredible talent and passion for woodworking. From crafting cherished pieces of furniture to rebuilding and refurbishing an old mahogany boat, he had and extensive workbench and an impressive set of tools. His love for nature was evident in his landscaping skills, which were a testament to his green thumb.

A dedicated and humble man of integrity, he led by example in all aspects of his life. Above all, John’s love and devotion to his family were boundless. His legacy of profound kindness, generosity, dedication and hard work will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 30th at 11:30AMat at Presbyterian Church of Wyoming, 225Wyoming Ave. (45215).

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to: Presbyterian Church of Wyoming, 225 Wyoming Ave., Cincinnati, OH, 45215 or the Mayo Clinic, P.O. Box 450, Albert Lea, MN, 56007-0450.