Kenneth Andrew Lovi

Kenneth Andrew Lovi, the owner of the popular downtown San Diego brewery and

gastropub, Knotty Barrel, passed away on January 8, 2025. He was 57 years old.

Kenneth is survived by his wife of 26 years, Stephanie Lovi, two brothers, John and

Christopher, two sisters, Gabrielle and Grace, and hundreds of friends and extended

family who loved and respected him dearly. He is predeceased by an older brother

(Peter), his father (Albert) and his adoring mother (Lucy).

Kenneth was born on March 16, 1967, in Sharon, Connecticut, the fifth of six children, and

grew up in nearby Dover Plains, New York. He left college after one semester to join the

United States Marine Corps, where he graduated from the Parris Island boot camp first in

his class. He served in the Special Presidential Protection and Transportation Unit (HMX-

1) under Presidents Reagan and GW Bush. Kenneth received his Honorable Discharge in

1990 but forever retained an affection for and attachment to the USMC and his many

Marine buddies.

After military service, Kenneth returned to school at the University of Hawaii where he

began a lifelong passion for the restaurant and hospitality business. “Kenny,” as he was

known by most who knew him, managed several successful bars and restaurants in

Hawaii and San Diego until he was able to finally realize his dream of opening his own

neighborhood bar/restaurant that brought everyone together to enjoy great drinks,

wonderful food, and create a space for conversations that brought about new friendships.

That dream became the Knotty Barrel.

Kenny brought joy, love, kindness, and hope to everyone he graced with his presence. He

was a passionate and loving husband, friend, boss, newly crowned BBQ Master, and NY

Giants/Penn State fan. He was deeply involved with and connected to his local San Diego

downtown community.  He was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews. And many

knew he also adored his 2 cats.

The Knotty Barrel, East Village family would like to thank everyone who makes our

restaurant more than just a place to eat. You have all graced us with your unwavering

support since we opened in May 2011. Kenny’s presence, gift of gab, and ability to make

everyone welcome will be greatly missed. To the Knotty Barrel staff -- past and present --

that we call family, words will never be enough to express our gratitude for helping make

Knotty Barrel more than just a place to work. It has been a second home to many of us

and has intertwined our lives forever. Knotty4Life.