IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Cornelius J. McKenna

September 14, 1938 - September 8, 2026

Cornelius J. McKenna Sr., lovingly known as Neil, passed away peacefully in his sleep on the evening of September 8, 2026, in Fairport, New York, at age 87. His passing followed a two-year struggle with dementia, during which he was surrounded by the love and care of his family.

Neil was born on September 14, 1938, in Potsdam, New York, to Harry and Mary McKenna (Mahoney). From an early age, his Catholic faith was central to his life. He served as an altar boy at St. Mary’s Church in Potsdam and later as a Eucharistic minister, lector, and parish council member for many years at St. Mary’s in Ontario. His devotion to his faith was a cornerstone of his character and guided him throughout his life.

Neil graduated from Potsdam High School and went on to work as a surveyor on the Eisenhower Lock project along the St. Lawrence Seaway. Later, he worked in Massena  at a Volkswagen dealership and met his future bride, Pat, who was working as a nurse at Massena Hospital.

They later moved to Seneca Falls when Neil accepted a position at General Dynamics. During that time, he earned a technical degree from DeVry Institute in Chicago, which helped launch his 28-year engineering career at Xerox.

Neil had many passions, including family, faith, home projects, genealogy, photography, stamp and coin collecting, gardening, and attending sporting events. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus working with charitable organizations in the area. Neil cherished life’s simple pleasures, including family celebrations and the sound of music or talk radio playing throughout the house.

Neil is survived by Patricia McKenna, his beloved wife of 61 years; their children, Cornelius McKenna Jr. (Kim), Andrew McKenna, Debbie McKenna, David McKenna (Kate), and William McKenna (Santa); his sister, Sheila McKenna; seven grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who will forever hold him close in their hearts. He was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Mary McKenna, and his brother, James B. McKenna Sr.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Murphy Funeral & Cremation Chapels 1961 Ridge Rd. Ontario, NY 14519.  A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s of the Lake, 5823 Walworth Road, Ontario. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Ontario, NY.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Golisano Children’s Hospital at the University of Rochester. To share a special memory please visit www.murphyfuneralservices.com.