Bobit Business Media gave Kenmir a “lifetime pass” to the annual International Car Rental Show in Las Vegas, where even during retirement, Kenmir would visit with attendees in the exhibit hall.
Sydney “Sid” Brian Kenmir, who founded the Associated Canadian Car Rental Operators (ACCRO) that serves small independent car rental operators, passed away peacefully on March 22 at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, according to his obituary. He was 92 years old.
Kenmir lived a life rich with purpose, generosity, and humor, beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born in Spennymoor in northeastern England, Kenmir immigrated to Canada with his family in 1952, eventually settling in the Doon area of Kitchener.
During the decades that followed, Kenmir worked in the insurance industry, followed by the car rental industry, before creating ACCRO in the early 1980s. The organization also has played a key role in lobbying efforts on behalf of the Ontario car rental industry. He served in ACCRO until his retirement in 2007.
Bobit Business Media gave Kenmir a “lifetime pass” to the annual International Car Rental Show in Las Vegas, where even during retirement, Kenmir would visit with attendees in the exhibit hall.
Kenmir’s life was also defined by service beyond the workplace. A proud former member of the Air Force with a lifelong love of motorcycles, Kenmir was a Life Member of the 404 K-W Wing, Royal Canadian Air Force Association, where he served for over 55 years, including as President.
He organized Remembrance Day buses for 26 years, and proudly represented the Wing in countless parades, including the Battle of Britain Parade for over 44 years.
In recognition of his extraordinary commitment and community service, Kenmir was the recipient of several honours, including:
- R.C.A.F.A. National Award of Merit (1974)
- Royal Canadian Legion Diamond Jubilee Medal (1986)
- 404 Wing Award of Merit (1998)
These awards testify to Kenmir’s unwavering dedication to veterans and the greater good. He also generously gave his time to the K-W Poppy Fund and K-W Veterans Council, always stepping up to serve others with humility and pride.
Kenmir had a legendary wit and loved sharing stories and jokes. He brought laughter wherever he went. In retirement, he and his wife, Marlene, cherished their travels across Canada in their trailer, cruises abroad, and joyful reunions with the extended Kenmir family in the U.K.
Kenmir is survived by his wife of over 52 years, Marlene (née Woodard), his brother Gordon and wife Linda, and many extended family members, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Raymond and Carrie, his brother Alan and wife Ruth, and sister Mavis and husband George.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, from 12 to 4 p.m. at the 404 K-W Wing, RCAFA, 510 Dutton Drive, Waterloo. Interment will occur earlier that day at 10:30 a.m. at Memory Gardens Cemetery, Breslau, Ontario.
Donations to the K-W Poppy Fund are welcomed in honor of Sid’s incredible life and legacy. Kenmir’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and deep impact—on his family, his community, and an entire industry.