James Joseph Kelly

For over 69 years, Jimbo’s pure love for life and people was apparent to all.  Authentic, fearless and fun, Jim made friends and left memorable impressions wherever he went.  He was the epitome of the phrase “larger than life personality”.  It is because of such a magnificent and magnetic aura that this unexpected physical loss of him is especially hard to digest.  We take comfort in knowing that his predeceased wife, his “honey” Cathie, was there to embrace his soul upon return to paradise, among many others that he shared his joy of life with.  Diamond is currently jamming, laughing and smiling with all that await us in paradise, and he hopes we all carry on in life with that same energy.  Jimmy leaves behind many aching hearts, especially those of his daughters and their husbands Lisa Speveck (Rob), Dana Love (Pat) and Kristin Czapor (Nick).  He was an insanely fun, creative and thoughtful Pop to his 9 grandchildren: Kayla, Jerry, Kendall, Liliana, Danny, Brielle, Zoey, Violet and Mason. Jimmy was also very proud of his large Irish Catholic family, born of parents James Sr. and Ann, in which he was the oldest of 8 children. His siblings John, Dennis, Kevin, Nancy, Mary, Gina, Sam(Patricia) and their spouses and children were all very special to him in their own unique ways.  Countless beloved friends, coworkers, car show comrades (especially his fellow Marauder owners) and neighbors—all new and old—fulfilled his life as well.  Jimmy wanted people to not be “inconvenienced” with a funeral, but instead “a big bash!”.  We will be honoring his wish, yet also will be honoring the peace he felt in his heart and soul as a Catholic man.  So please join us in celebrating the life of Jim at Our Lady of Calvary Church, 11024 Knights Rd, on Saturday August 7.  Viewing begins at 9:30, with mass to follow at 11.  Jim enjoyed seeing everyone dressed up, but he enjoyed casual wear more!  Dress in the energy you felt when around Jim, whether that be Bbq gear or Walmart fashion!  Don’t forget to bring your smiles, laughter and willingness to jam at his “bash” after the mass! ROCK ON!!!