ELLINWOOD — Devastation struck one half mile from home, Ron Kelly of Ellinwood was involved in a single vehicle accident. Life watched to Wesley Medical Center, loved ones by his side, Ronald Kelly 83, of Ellinwood passed away on Friday March 24th, 2023. Ron was an amazing husband to wife Kay for nearly 62 years. Loving father, fun grandfather, and the perfect example of a true gentleman.
Born Oct 3rd, 1939 in Barrhead, Alberta Canada to Wilford and Ida Kelly, third child of five siblings. By age 15 participated in Golden Glove Boxing and Hockey. At age 16 the family moved to Santa Monica, Calif. working in the family meat locker plant and a small family restaurant. In Canoga Park, Calif. Ron met the only true love of his life, in time, married Kay Elizabeth Gardner on April 24, 1961. Soon after, Ron was called to duty, stationed at Langley Air Force Base. Military life found the newlyweds moving from base to base and soon started a family, first born son, John Howard.
While Ron served in the Air Force, he took many study courses, earning several certificates of completion. By 1969 Ron and Kay brought their two children to settle in Ellinwood, Kan. where they raised all 3 children. Ronnie volunteered within the community included the delivery of, Meals on Wheels, German Buffet entertaining those who love accordion music. Ron loved music and dancing, playing piano, organ and keyboard, self taught he played by ear. Started as a boy played in his fathers band in Canada.
A passion for adventure, be it by motorcycle or vehicle, this led Ron and Kay to the Colorado Rockies many years, bringing home fishing stories and fond memories. He loved camping, fires, making new friends, kids, boating, motorcycles, puzzles, cards, board games, reading, history, family traditions and mechanics. A gentle soul, jolly laugh, positive attitude, huge heart, meaningful hugs, never a negative word.
Preceding Ron in death; Parents John Wilford and Ida Kelly, brothers Richard, Gary, Jimmy Kelly and sister Lorraine Lovell. Survivors include wife Kay, son John and wife Marion Kelly of Kansas City, Mo., daughter Tracy Williams partner Richard Hines, daughter Lori Kelly partner Tony Sitts, grandson Forrest Williams, great granddaughter McKiah Kay, grandson Quincy Williams, granddaughter Kelly Ann Williams all of Ellinwood. Long time friend Bill Williams and nephew Harley Kelly of Great Bend. Granddaughter Nicole Jenkins, husband Justin and great grandchildren twins Bristol, Tenely and Nash of Kansas City; and brother in
law Terry Brown, Gunnison, Colo.
Memorial service will take place 2 p.m., April 22 at Minnis Chapel in Ellinwood with Pastor Thomas Thierfelder followed by inurnment at Lakin-Comanche Cemetery in Ellinwood with military honors. Visitation will take place April 21 at Minnis Chapel from 1-7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to PBS Foundation in care of Minnis Chapel, PO Box 246, Ellinwood, KS 67526.
Funeral arrangements by
Minnis Chapel
P.O. Box 246
Ellinwood, KS 67526
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, April 2, 2023
