Robert Lee Kelly

Robert Lee Kelly, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great-Grandfather, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, October 11, 2022. He passed away peacefully at his home in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 89. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Dorothy Kelly and sisters Elaine Wood and Mary Ellen Westveer. He is survived by the love of his life, Trudy, his wife of 69 years, and his children Greg (Coleen) Kelly, Maureen (Jim) Schaut, Therese (Gary) Lorenz, Sharon (Daryl) Nowicki, and Tom (Terri) Kelly. Bob was blessed to be grandfather to 15 grandchildren: Meghan (David), John (Rose), Erin (Matt), Brendan (Val), Rob (Heather), Molly, Kathleen (Joe), Carolyn (Nic), Joe (Shannon), Emily (Scott), Tom (Emily), Steve (Michele), Lauren (Trent), Kathryn (Nick), and Katie (Ben), and 29 great-grandchildren. Bob was a blessing and role model to his family. Bob was born on January 1, 1933 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and he loved to say that “the whole world celebrated his birthday.” As a boy, he helped on the family farm, driving the tractor at the age of 9. He loved hunting and was an accomplished horseman who competed in rodeos. He was a 1950 graduate of Catholic Central High School, where his beautiful Irish tenor voice caught the attention of his future wife, Gertrude Bichler, when they sang together in an Octet. They were married in 1953, and moved to Panama, where he served his country in the Army by guarding the Panama Canal during the Korean Conflict. Together, Bob and Trudy provided entertainment to the troops with their duets. Singing was a lifelong passion, and he was an enthusiastic choir member at many parishes, the last being at Holy Spirit Parish. Bob loved all things Irish, especially Notre Dame Football (or whoever was playing U of M), Guinness Beer, St. Patrick’s Day, and Irish music. He was known for his clever wit and sayings, often referred to as “Bobisms.” He had a long and successful career with West Michigan Tree Services, working until he was 80 because he truly enjoyed his colleagues. Bob, with Trudy, was devoted throughout his life to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Together, they supported the Sacred Heart Monastery, Mel Trotter Ministries, Wounded Warriors, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and many other charities. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but his example of faith lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. The family would like to thank the caregivers from Luminate and Emmanuel Hospice, who provided such loving care and support in every way possible. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. The family will receive visitors from 5-8:00 PM at Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, on Thursday, October 13, with a Rosary prayed at 7:30 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Parish on Friday, October 14, 2022 at 11:00 AM. The family will receive visitors at 10:00 AM prior to Mass. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated by the Holy Spirit Educational Foundation.

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Robert Lee Kelly

January 1, 1933 - October 11, 2022