Baltimore, MD – On such a beautiful day, “it didn’t feel right,” said the rabbi, to be indoors at Baltimore Hebrew Congregation mourning the tragic and sudden death of Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. “This should not be happening,” reflected Jill, his beloved wife of 19 years. But Kamenetz died doing what he loved. “He was driven to win it,” she added, about his campaign for Maryland governor.
What a role model he was for young people who love politics, and all of us who care about good government. Last night, I joined the UMBC College Democrats, United for Maryland, several gubernatorial candidates, and Baltimore County residents at another ceremony to reflect on Kevin’s life and legacy. As each person rose from their seats to share their memories of Kevin, we were all inspired by a man whose public and private life were so intertwined.
Kevin had Maryland politics in his DNA and it showed in his rise from a Young Democrat in the early 90’s to the courageous leader that he was as Baltimore County Executive.
But as much as Kevin loved politics, he loved his family most, and his face would light up when he talked about Jill and their two sons, Karson and Dylan. It was clear that as Kevin grew in prominence, his family was the most important part of his life, and he never lost sense of humor or his optimism for the future.
As we continue to keep Jill, Karson, Dylan and all of Kevin’s loved ones in our thoughts, I am confident that Kevin would want us to continue working to make Maryland better for all families.
So as we move toward Election Day, let’s carry on in the spirit of Kevin Kamenetz, who was a champion for working families and an inspiration to everyone around him. He’ll be deeply missed.