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 Wilfred Kelly 83, of Ellinwood passed away on Friday March 24, 2023. Ron was an amazing husband to his wife, Kay, for nearly 62 years. He was a loving father, fun grandfather, and the perfect example of a true gentleman.
Born Oct. 3, 1939 in Barrhead, Alberta Canada to Wilford and Ida Kelly, Ron was the third child of five siblings.
By age 15, he 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 and, in time, married Kay Elizabeth Gardner on April 24, 1961. Soon after, Ron was called to duty and stationed at Langley Air Force Base. Military life found the newlyweds moving from base to base and they soon started a family with 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, where they raised all three children.
Ronnie volunteered within the community, including the delivery of Meals on Wheels, German Buffet, and entertaining those who love accordion music. Ron loved music and dancing, playing piano, organ and keyboard. Self-taught, he played by ear. He started as a boy and played in his father's band in Canada.
A passion for adventure, be it by motorcycle or vehicle, this led Ron and Kay to the Colorado Rockies for 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, 2023, 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.