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National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Roll of Honor

Firefighter
Age: 33
Year of Death: 2014

Michael-Ryan Robert Crosby Kennedy

Michael-Ryan was a U.S. Marine sergeant and an Iraq War veteran. He enjoyed sports and particularly loved Boston’s sports teams, even traveling with friends to England to support his beloved N.E. Patriots. Michael was a certified Crossfit trainer, as well as a trained chief. He belonged to a veterans’ motorcycle club, was a volunteer “Big Brother,” worked with the Boston Burn Foundation, and was a favorite on the children’s burn ward, where his playful childishness is sorely missed. Among his many charitable works, Michael raised funds for local families and local charities as well as Wounded Warriors, Homes for Our Troops, and Mass Fallen Heroes.

Michael was the life of the party and the king of over the top gestures. He was well known and loved by most everyone he met. His charisma, smile, and can do attitude inspired and challenged those around him. The very antithesis of a Dork, it was his chosen nickname from an early age, after watching bullies at work. Michael’s friends and colleagues created a “Dork Strong” Crossfit workout and a memorial tee shirt that is worn across the U.S. and Canada in his honor. Dork Strong tees have been reported in Germany, Ireland, Switzerland, and being worn by the troops in Iraq.

Born and raised in Boston, it is fitting that Michael is buried with his brother firefighters in his beloved Boston.

He is survived by his dad, E. Paul Kennedy; his mom, Kathy Crosby-Bell; and his stepdad, William Bell.

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  1. Seemed like a great guy. A Hero. RIP to this Man

    – Colby W.
  2. Served with Mike in Iraq — we became fast friends. One of the best guys I’ve ever met, hands down.

    – Kevin Ford
  3. I never knew Michael but as a former vet and current firefighter this hits close to home and may god bless you and your family in the afterlife and for many millenniums to come. Rest in Peace brother.

    – Michael Kennedy