Sad passing of Keith Kensett
His passion for the industry was the driving force through his treatment, and fortnightly chemo was endured with his iPad and phone in his hand, watching videos of thatch removal and infiltration. You won't be surprised to know that most of the nurses at the Royal Marsden now have a working knowledge of sand injection machines.
Sadly, the severity of his condition accelerated at such a speed that it took everyone by surprise, typical of Keith, who never did anything without gusto. On Friday his fight came to an end, bizarrely accompanied by the sound of someone mowing grass outside his room, which seemed fitting. His wife and sons were with him.
Keith's right hand man, long serving colleague and friend, Keith "little Keith" Driver, Head of Contracting at R&K Kensett made the following comment:
"Keith was not only an open book of turf based knowledge, but he was also a top bloke and a great friend to many. He was generous with his invaluable advice and his precious time to which many have been beneficiaries of, and I'm certain he will be a great loss for our industry in so many ways. Anyone who saw Keith in action would have been hard pushed not to be influenced by his absolutely infectious enthusiasm and witty cockney humour!"
Keith leaves behind his wife Jane, who has worked alongside him in R&K Kensett for over 25 years, and also his two sons, Rich and Joe.
R&K Kensett has continued to thrive despite Keith's illness. This is in no small part down the continued hard work, loyalty and diligence of the knowledgeable, long serving, dedicated staff that R&K Kensett considers itself lucky to have. R&K Kensett will go on.
Jane Kensett, Keith's wife and co-director explained; "Thirty years ago, Keith took over R&K Kensett from his own father, and it will continue to be a family concern. Business will continue as usual. Our primary focus is to build upon the good work Keith and our experienced and knowledgeable team have been doing."
We have been so lifted by offers of help and well-wishers. A page has been set up by Keith's family for donations to Cancer Research UK in Keith's name. Rich and Joe agreed; "This research could one day help another family who needs it. Dad's revolutionary treatment prolonged his life, which we are grateful for, but not enough. In future it may save a life."
You can donate via the following link: www.justgiving.com/keithkensett
Funeral Service
Anyone who loved, respected, or has laughed with Keith is more than welcome to come to the funeral to help give him the send-off he deserves. This will be held on Tuesday 24th September at 3.45pm at Surrey & Sussex Crematorium. Please contact R&K Kensett on 01883 342632 for more details or visit www.kensettsports.com where a page is in the process of being set up.