Kenn, 65, died August 22, 1997, in Idaho City, Idaho. He was born July 2, 1932, in Caldwell, Idaho, where he grew up and graduated from Caldwell H.S. in 1950. Kenn joined the USAF and served four years before starting his smokejumping career at Idaho City in 1955. He was instrumental in building the city park at Idaho City, renovating boardwalks, and joining in the community "Christmas in July" celebration. He made 199 jumps and an injury in a helicopter crash in 1969 ended his smokejumping.

Kenn jumped at Idaho City 1955-69, and Boise in 1970-71 when the unit was transferred there. After his retirement, he became deeply involved with the Idaho City Historical Society and was instrumental in renovating of buildings in the community.