North Providence – Kenneth A. “Kenny” August, 72, of North Providence died Wednesday March 18, 2020 at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence.
Born and raised in Manville he was a son of the late Manuel and Ebe (Donnini) August.
Kenny was a graduate of Mt. St. Charles Academy in Woonsocket. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston and later earned his Master’s Degree in Public Engineering from Duquesne University.
In the early years of his career Kenny was employed by the Marriott Hotel Corporation. He was involved in the construction and renovations of many Marriott properties throughout the United States.
Kenny was the founder and president of Sundance Construction Services in North Providence, a firm he owned and managed for over 40 years.
Kenny was a civic-minded business owner and gave back to the community through his involvement with the Lions Clubs in the Northern Rhode Island area including serving as President of the Woonsocket Lions Club 1993-1994.
Kenny was an avid railroad enthusiast and delighted in model trains. He was an ardent New York Yankees and Pittsburgh Steelers fan and stuck by his teams, even if it caused some “domestic controversy”, all in good fun.
Kenny was truly at home on the open water. His most favorite times were those spent aboard his most prized possession, the “Bad Attitude”, his home-away-from-home on the “high seas”. Docked in the picturesque seaside community of Wickford, countless beautiful and sunny days would find Kenny cruising the waters for fun and relaxation. Kenny was a true Rhode Islander and knew all the inlets and outlets of the coastline. His time aboard his vessel define what it means to live in the Ocean State.
Vibrant, funny, creative and resourceful are just a few words to describe Kenny’s spirit. Kenny maintained positive relationships with many people he knew through his contacts in the business, charitable and boating communities. Kenny reserved his closest bonds of love and affection for those he held most dearly. He cared deeply for them, more than words can communicate, more than they could ever know.
While the world is a lesser place because of his passing, Kenny would most want his legacy of love and caring for others to continue. A kind word or deed would be a wonderful way to honor Kenny. And when you stand upon the shore on a brilliant summer’s day, think of Kenny, waving to you from upon the waters of Narragansett Bay. He would like that.
Kenny is survived by his longtime companion of over 30 years Maureen Lee of North Providence and his best friend Keith Fortier of Smithfield. He is also survived by a number of close friends including Maureen’s family. Kenney was the nephew of the late Evo J. “Curly “Donnini, the founder of Ciro’s restaurant in Woonsocket. Kenny and Curly shared a special bond of family.
Kenny’s funeral services and burial are private. Visiting hours are respectfully omitted. A memorial Mass will be held in the future. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Antoine Residence 10 Rhodes Ave. North Smithfield, RI. 02896 or the Rhode Island Lions at www.rilions.com.
Arrangements are in care of the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home, 127 Carrington Ave. Woonsocket.
www.menardfuneralhome.com