Norbert Kenneth “Kenny” Skenandore

February 16, 1941 – June 2026

Norbert Kenneth Skenandore, affectionately known to friends and family as Kenny, passed away peacefully at his home in Oneida, WI, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 85.

Kenny’s Oneida name was Lan^.yatlo'.loks, meaning "He gathers stones." He was born on February 16, 1941, in Keshena, WI, to the late Norbert James Skenandore and Charlotte Frances Waupoose.

A Legacy of Hard Work and Love

In 1960, Kenny entered the ironworking trade, embarking on a storied 43-year career before his retirement in 2003. As a proud member of Ironworker Local 1 Union, he helped shape the midwestern skyline. While he lent his skills to numerous Chicago landmarks, he was most proud of his work on the John Hancock Center, the United Center, McCormick Place, and the Leo Frigo Bridge in Green Bay, WI.

As fate would have it, a chance meeting at Bridie’s Bar in Chicago, IL, changed his life forever. When Diane Jean Cornelius and her sister Fern needed a ride to Oneida for a softball tournament, Kenny stepped up to drive. He spent the next five decades driving Diane around. The couple married at Chicago City Hall on August 25, 1973, and built a beautiful life together.

Kenny was a man of diverse passions. He loved camping, fishing, playing softball, and bowling with his family. After retiring, he embraced the open road on his first Harley Davidson and later an Indian Vintage motorcycle. He was a man of many hobbies, but his absolute favorite pastime was gardening. From sunrise to sunset, Kenny could be found tending his yard, always accompanied by his loyal dog-son, Vision Quest.

Family Matriarch & Survivors

Kenny is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; their children:

• Kimberly (Michael) Goodrich
• Lee Skenandore
• Travel Skenandore
• Step-children: Annette "Kitty" Pyzel and Joe Yazzie

He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Irene Schroeder, Danelle Skenandore, Nicholas and Matthew Pyzel, Doyle and Charlette Skenandore, and Aron Rodriquez; three great-grandchildren: Ramon, Jamari, and James; and his siblings: Guy Ninham, Pokey Fox, and John "Boom" Skenandore, alongside a massive circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents; his father- and mother-in-law, Royalton L. and Irene Cornelius; and his siblings: Patricia Skenandore, Joyce Ninham, Lyle Ninham, Wayne Ninham, Joe Ninham, Alma Ninham, Richard "Chiefie" Ninham, Nancy "Tiny" Skenandore, and Robert Skenandore.

Services and Acknowledgments

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Oneida Elderly Services, and to Unity Hospice—especially RN Rabihah—for their compassionate, dedicated care in ensuring dad's comfort.

Friends and family are invited to gather at the Skenandore Homestead, 3119 Jonas Circle, Oneida, WI.

• Visitation: Begins on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM and will continue through the night.
• Memorial Service: Friday, June 26, 2026, beginning with the Oneida Hymn Singers at 9:30 AM, followed by services with Pastor Juan Alicea and Oneida Longhouse Speaker Bob Brown.