Lorraine Kennec

Lorraine Marie Kennec, 93, of Cañon City, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026. Born on September 11, 1932, in Walsenburg, Colorado, to Lee and Mary Brunelli, Lorraine lived a life defined by her deep faith, her passion for teaching, and her tireless devotion to those around her.

After moving to Cañon City in 1995, Lorraine became an integral part of local life through her spirited volunteerism and generous heart. She was a long-time member of the Cañon City Noon Lions, where she served as Secretary and took great pride in conducting vision screenings for children. Her selflessness did not go unnoticed, as she was honored with both the prestigious Melvin Jones Award and the Humanitarian Award. Additionally, she was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary and a devoted parishioner at St. Michael Catholic Church, where she lent her time to various church ministries over the years.

Education was Lorraine’s true calling. She spent 38 years as a dedicated school teacher in Denver, always seeking creative ways to inspire her students. Her lessons often extended into the natural world; she famously recruited family members to help her gather rocks, pinecones, and other treasures to ensure her students had a hands-on learning experience. Outside of the classroom, she was an exceptional candy maker, frequently preparing her celebrated sweets for the annual Celebration of Love and Chocolate fundraiser at St. Scholastica Academy.

Lorraine was fortunate to have shared her life with two great loves. She was married to Thomas Smith for 45 years and later to Bobby Kennec for 16 years. She is survived by her nephews, Robert (DeeDee) Clement, Thad (Rhoda) Brunelli, and Shon Brunelli; as well as her stepson, Rodney (Renea) Kennec. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Mary; her husbands, Tom and Bobby; her sister, Charlene Clement; her brother, Harold L. Brunelli and her nephew, Richard Clement.

Family and friends are invited to honor Lorraine on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at St. Michael Catholic Church, located at 1029 College Ave in Cañon City. The Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place at Lakeside Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow back at the St. Michael Catholic Church Parish Hall.

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