The Man, The Myth, The Legendary Deadline Wrangler
Nearly 30 years, countless stories, one unforgettable editor.
Paul Kennedy, now retired, formerly Editorial Director of Kovels Antique Trader.
After nearly three decades in the publishing world, Paul Kennedy is hanging up his editor’s hat—and what a legacy he leaves behind. From his early days at Krause Publications in 1997 to guiding Kovels Antique Trader through industry changes with F+W Media and now Active Interest Media, Paul has been a steady, inspiring presence through it all.
He’s taken on many roles, including book acquisitions expert, sharp-witted writer, and, for the past five years, the editor-in-chief who brought energy, creativity, and a clear editorial voice to every page of this magazine. Paul is one of those rare individuals who’s probably forgotten more about antiques and collectibles than most of us will ever know—and he’s shared that knowledge generously, with humor, patience, and unmistakable passion.
In the “From the Editor” feature in this month’s edition, I attempted to share what working with Paul Kennedy meant to me. Now, it’s my coworkers’ turn. What follows is just a small sampling of the admiration, memories, and gratitude from those lucky enough to work alongside him. Because when someone is larger-than-life, encouraging, and a genuinely kind person, saying goodbye isn’t easy—but celebrating them sure is.
— Kele Johnson, Editor, Kovels Antique Trader.
“Paul not only ran Antique Trader, but he also oversaw Sports Collectors Digest, which gave us a lot of opportunities to debate and discuss his other favorite pastimes—baseball and basketball. Whether it was arguing about the Brewers, Bucks or his beloved Wisconsin Badgers, we had many wildly entertaining sports talks. Paul often made my day with his colorful personality and friendly banter. Like a true Wisconsin fan, he could ‘Badger’ you with the best of ’em.” Jeff Owens, Editor, Sports Collectors Digest
“Paul’s work bringing Kovels into Antique Trader was nothing less than fantastic—and that included bringing me on board. It took me a while to get used to a different type of publication, with a faster pace and new responsibilities, but Paul gave me plenty of patience, guidance and ideas. His writing is always filled with wit and insight, and he made it look easy!” Elizabeth Heineman, Copy Editor, Kovels Antique Trader
“Paul has been a great leader and mentor. He brightened every room he walked into. It has been a privilege to get to know him over the years.” Sophia Mattimiro, Senior Editor, Numismatic News
“Paul gave me my first oportunity at Kovels by accepting my story pitch as a freelance writer. Since then, I’ve grown with the magazine and other titles at AIM, all thanks to Paul. I wish him a wonderful retirement and a huge congratulations on the amazing work he’s accomplished in his career!” Sierra Holt, Managing Editor, Kovels Antique Trader
“I first met PK when I was a cub newspaper reporter starting a new job in a new town way back in 1988. I was at my crummy little desk when this cat with long 1980s hair, a chees mustache, skinny black tie (like he was going dancing at Club MTV or something) and black Chuck Taylor Converse All-Stars comes sauntering up to my desk. He was wise-cracking and acting all hip and funny. I found out he was the hotshot local reporter and columnist … We hit it off right away. And I quickly realized, this guy was good! Really good.
We only worked together for a year before I left for another gig. About 12 years later I took another job at Krause Publications in Wisconsin, and who comes rolling up to my new desk again? Good old PK! So we worked together for another 25 years after that.
I could go on all day about him. Anybody who knows him knows Paul is 1 in a million. He’s “on” 24/7/365. The life of the party everywhere he goes, and a great person. One of the best writers I know, and one of the best friends and co-workers I’ve ever had.” Brian Earnest, Editorial Director, Old Cars Weekly
“When I began working with Paul, he quickly became one of my favorite people to work with. I enjoyed not only collaborating with him on every issue to help create how he wanted each issue to look, his sense of humor made it that much more fun. His passion for the Kovel’s Antique Trader and the subject matter was obvious and his enthusiasm was contagious. At the end of every issue, he would end his email with ‘Let’s make a magazine!’ I will truly miss working with him.” Julie Green, Graphic Designer, Kovels Antique Trader
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