Joseph M. Kennedy, 54, of Ilion passed away on Thursday, October 5th, 2017. Joseph was born on June 11, 1963 in New Hartford, NY. He was a 1981 graduate of Ilion Jr./Sr. High School, attended H.C.C.C., and the BOCES nursing program through M.V.C.C. Joe was a lifelong member of the Ilion Fish and Game Club. His favorite activities included hunting, fishing, foraging, and all things nature related. More recently, Joe enjoyed studying the law. He was an avid reader, and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with everyone. Joe was married to Christine Acker on August 16th, 2003. He worked for a short time with MOVAC, and then worked for Herkimer County Hospice for 12 years. He also enjoyed working at Burrows Paper Mill prior to his illness. Joe is survived by his 2 step-children, Candice and Steven Shore, 2 grandchildren, Cadence and Hunter Smith, his sister Victoria Lohr and her husband John, his niece Erin Marmontello and nephew Michael Marmontello, his closest friends, Robert (Bubba) Brown and Dawn Brown. Joe was predeceased by his wife, his father (Michael S. Kennedy), and his grandparents (Rip and Laura Day). Joe will be truly missed by many close friends and acquaintances. There will be no calling hours or formal services. A private gathering will take place at a later time.