Bourke loses bush legend

Kat with his children Bryce and Melissa Photos Photo Supplied

Last week Bourke farewelled Kenneth Edward Kendall, a man who has become a legend in town and in the bush Back O’Bourke.

Sadly, the man everyone knew as Kat Kendall passed away on 4th August after a short illness. A large contingent of family, friends and former workmates attended his funeral service at Holy Innocents Anglican Church on Tuesday 14th August 2019.

Following is an abridged version of the obituary presented by Bourke Deputy Mayor, and Kat’s friend, Lachlan Ford:

It is with a heavy heart and with great honour that I present Kat’s Eulogy on behalf of Melissa and Bryce. I have had the pleasure of enjoying Kat’s friendship for the best part of 20 years

Kat Kendall has been, and always will be a Bourke icon, and loved by all who were lucky to be a part of his life. Kenneth Edward Kendall was born in Bourke on the 24th February 1944 to Irene Joyce Riley and George Edward Kendall, he is the eldest of nine children – Patricia, Bruce (deceased), Gloria, Lois (deceased), Michael (deceased), Sharon, Robyn and Anthony (deceased).

At birth he carried the last name Riley, which was later changed to Kendall, and he later adopted the nickname “Kat” Kendall. Kat was affectionately known as Poppy Kat. In later years his real name become a question at local trivia competition as his real name was barely mentioned.

Kat lived with his Nanna Grace and Granddad Charlie when he was young, and he was the apple of his Nanna’s eye.

Read more in the printed edition of the Western Herald.