Dennis B. Kane, Pioneering Documentary Filmmaker, Dies at 82

Dennis Barton Kane (August 21, 1934 - July 27, 2017)

Dennis Kane passed away peacefully on July 27. He was predeceased by his parents, Ella and Vincent; his stepfather, Howard; and his son, Michael. He is survived by his wife, Mary, and their children: Patrick and wife, Meaghan; and Andrew. He is also survived by his children Deborah, husband Paul; and Christopher, wife Michelle. He also leaves behind his adoring grandchildren, of Patrick and Meaghan: Matthew, Ella, James, Benjamin, and Lydia.

Dennis served as Vice President and Director of Television for the National Geographic Society and as Executive Producer of all National Geographic Television specials for two decades. Dennis founded the Educational Film Division at the National Geographic and also established the National Geographic Film Library. Additionally, the critically acclaimed National Geographic Explorer cable television series was developed under Dennis' direction. During this time, the National Geographic specials won nearly 300 major television awards, among them 25 Emmys, three George Foster Peabody awards, and the Columbia School of Journalism's DuPont Silver Baton.

In 1988, Dennis was appointed president of ABC/Kane Productions International, a wholly owned subsidiary of ABC, Inc., producing over 80 hours of original programming for the ABC television network, ESPN, and PBS. Kane's worldwide productions and creative expertise resulted in seven Emmys, three Genesis awards, numerous CINE and film festival awards, and an Academy Award nomination.

Far more than any title or award, Dennis took pride in the many successes of his colleagues and staff; he adored his people and was always excited by the opportunity to mentor and elevate them while creating and encouraging an atmosphere of learning and fun.

In retirement, Dennis volunteered his time and expertise to a number of charitable organizations, including Central American Medical Outreach (CAMO), Catholic Relief Services, Operation Smile, Save the Children, and Smile Train.

Donations can be made in Dennis' honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Save the Children.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 1, 2017 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg, 201 Edwards Ferry Rd, NE, Leesburg, VA  20176.

A Mass will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at 11:00am at Saint John The Apostle Catholic Church, Leesburg, VA.  A burial will immediately follow at Saint John The Apostle Cemetery.