Todd S. Kenee

We have suffered the loss of first a son, then a husband, father and grandfather with the passing of Todd Stewart Kenee, affectionately known as Chef Todd to many and Dad to 4 children and PopPop to 13 grandchildren. On March 20, 2024, Todd passed away at home next to his wife (the place where he said was his favorite place in the world). Todd had been ill off and on over the last several years and desperately wanted to retire with his wife to a place near her hometown where he could fish, grill, garden and play with his puppies. Todd leaves a legacy of honor, integrity, kindness and limitless knowledge of all things culinary. He was truly a genius with food and will be sorely missed by all of his family, past and current staff, friends, and customers whom he called family. Born on April 19, 1964, to Patricia Stewart and Stephan Lawrence Kenee, Todd was their first born and only son. Todd enjoyed many rides with his mom in the family sports cars as a child and train rides to his grandmother's bakery for "Hopple" (Apple) Pie. He was joined later by his sister Stephanie whom he loved to tease and often tricked into eating unusual foods making her forever suspect when he offered anything. Todd enjoyed fishing and trapping and spoke often of his childhood traipsing around the banks of the Susquehanna. He spoke of delivering prescriptions for his father's pharmacy to the local nursing homes. And of his many friends, concerts, and shenanigans along the way. Todd graduated from Hershey High School class of 1982, having also attended Cedar Crest High School for some of his high school years he considered himself an alumnus of both. Todd spent about a year at a local HACC campus before, with the support of his parents, pursuing his dream of Culinary Arts receiving a degree from Johnson & Wales University in Providence Rhode Island. Todd had too many stories from college to mention but thoroughly enjoyed reliving his college years with anyone who would listen. Todd's professional career was wrought with great accomplishments and accolades wherever he was. Most mentionable were his years at Lancaster Country Club followed by an executive chef position at Williamsport Country Club from which he maintained many friends made up of customers, coworkers and leaders. His knowledge, skill, and gregarious personality made him an unforgettable coworker, leader and chef. He also loved racing Porsches during his Williamsport days. Wanting to return home to his roots, possibly have a family and own his own business Todd returned to Lebanon County. With the support of his parents, he finally settled on Franz's Tavern & Restaurant in 1998. He opened the day after closing on the deal and got to work creating a wonderful neighborhood restaurant and tavern. His slogan was "Cold Beer &.....Pretty Good Food". He was humble, and as far as accolades for his cooking, he was a bit shy. But after a few drinks he would wow the staff and customers with late night snacks, many stories of his life adventures and expansive musical knowledge. Shortly after opening he met Belinda, who joined him in running and working in the business. They were partners in every way with Todd also taking on the care of four children, James E.P. Stevens of Pittsburgh, Konrad C.R. Stevens of Spokane, WA, Elizabeth S wife of Ezra Braun of Mrytle Beach, SC and Pamela C wife of Anthony Kertulis of Schaefferstown, whom he loved as his own. Todd and Belinda were finally married on May 15, 2017, in the Outer Banks. They honeymooned by taking a deep-sea fishing trip, which was successful and one of his greatest joys. He enjoyed taking the kids fishing, teaching them about food and music. He was also a PopPop to 13 grandchildren, whom he loved in ways only he could, taking them fishing or introducing them to interesting foods. When able he loved to take vacations with his wife Belinda, and when possible, with his parents and sister. He was an avid reader and loved learning about anything he could. He was larger than life and unforgettable to everyone who met him. There are not enough words to describe him or the impact he had on everyone around him. Todd was predeceased by his father, grandparents, uncle, and cousin. His wife Belinda will cherish his memory and try to keep his legacy alive through sharing recipes and stories with the many, many customers, staff, friends and family he gained in his too short life. A memorial to honor and celebrate Todd will be held in late May when all the children can attend. Details will be published as soon as possible.

Todd S. Kenee

April 19, 1964 - March 20, 2024