Sean Canney

A family man through and through, Sean Canney was a loyal, loving, and strong provider for the family he loved. His easy-going personality and ability to not take things too seriously made him well-liked by anyone he met. No one was ever a stranger in his eyes. Compassionate and caring, perhaps the greatest legacy that he leaves behind is the family he so loved.

The 1960s were characterized by great social changes. Known as the era of optimism, many Americans believed they were standing at the dawn of a golden age. At the beginning of this promising decade in our nation’s history, Lewis and Wanda Canney welcomed home their newborn son, Sean, on June 15, 1961, in Battle Creek, Michigan. His birth provided them with much hope and happiness.

Sean was born with an innate interest in people. He was always social from a young age and loved to entertain. Sean graduated from Mattawan High School and set off for Ohio Tech University. While there, he worked at the local Cork and Cleaver restaurant. Before long, he decided to move back home to work at his family’s business, Canney’s Water Conditioning. He spent many years installing water softening and water treatment systems before eventually moving into the sales side of the business, which was only a natural fit for his outgoing personality. Musically talented, he picked up many classic rock songs by ear, playing on his custom Les Paul electric guitar. Unable to read sheet music, his mother even attempted to pay for lessons. His instructor quickly saw his talent and told her it would be best for him to continue playing by ear. He later landed himself a spot with the local band, Explorer. Sean loved to perform and played in the area for many years.

One fateful night at Coral Gables, a wonderful woman named Lori caught his eye…and the rest was history! From their very first date, they were lucky in love. Although their marriage ended, they remained close. Sean taught his kids how to ski, ride dirt bikes, and wakeboard while they lived on Austin Lake. Summertime was always spent on the water. Sean loved playing practical jokes on his kids and never minded getting wet or poking fun around the boys. Teasing was his best expression of love. They also spent time skeet shooting together and took in a few rock concerts when they could, even if the boys might’ve been a bit too young at the time for some of the more mature entertainment from the rock bands. They attended a Mötley Crüe concert together as well as Kiss and many others. Sean loved being a dad, sharing his passions, and was always encouraging to his sons. Recently, he was delighted in his role as a grandpa. He savored the time they spent together.

Social and outgoing, Sean loved a wide variety of pastimes. He enjoyed grilling out and loading up the barbecue with burgers, steaks, or whatever could feed a crowd! He had a true appreciation of Corvettes and even owned one of his own, often taking people for a spin and showing off around town. In addition to his Corvette, he also loved his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, though it took some getting used to at first. On his very first ride, he crashed it into a mailbox! Sean was drawn to airplanes as well. He enjoyed visiting the Air Zoo and naming all the makes and models. From snowmobiling to skiing, as well as enjoying the outdoors, there was never a dull moment when Sean was around! An animal lover, Sean had a special bond with his dogs, Otis and Gnarly, who gave him good company between family visits and gatherings.

Described as mellow, Sean always looked on the bright side of things and typically didn’t show anger around others. As a result, he lived his life to the fullest. His wonderful sense of humor and unconditional love will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Sean Canney, age 60, of Vicksburg, Michigan, died on May 19, 2022. Sean was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Terry Canney, Ann DeVisser, and Scott Canney; and his nephew, Matt Canney. Surviving are his children: Austin (Autumn Papineau) Canney, Devin Canney, and Brandon (Davie) Canney; grandchildren: Mattix, Nixon, and Ivy; siblings: Brian (Patrice) Canney, Kevin (Vicky) Canney, and Mary Jane (Jim) Midgett; former wife, Lori Canney; and many nieces and nephews. Please join us at a Life Story Visitation where food, drinks, and stories will be shared on Wednesday (MAY 25) 5-7 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo 269-375-2900. A Life Story Service will be held at 12 PM Thursday (MAY 26), also at the funeral home. Visit Sean’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories and photos, and sign his guestbook.