Mr. Russell Edward Kelley's Obituary
Mr. Russell Edward Kelley, age 72, passed away Thursday, April 18, 2019 at his home surrounded by family. Russ was born October 10, 1946 in Muskegon to Russell J. and Lucille M. (Kitchen) Kelley. On February 26, 1966, he married the former Cherielynn E. Harris and she survives him. Russ served his country as a member of the U.S. Army in Vietnam. He was a longtime member of Sheridan Drive Baptist Church. Russ was the boiler operator/maintenance person at Baker College for many years before retiring in 2009. Prior to that, Russ worked for Muskegon County Regional Center and the Grand Rapids Veteran’s Center. He also owned and operated Russ Kelley and Son Tree Service from 2001-2018 and was passionate and very proud of his work with a job well done. He was a member and leader of the 4H Sunset Riders’ Club and started the Orchard View Soccer Club. He had been a longtime member of the 7 AM North Muskegon Mr. Quick coffee group. Russ was a terrific dad and his home was always the hub of activity when the children were growing up. He totally enjoyed his grandchildren, hunting and camping with his family. Russ was a wonderful husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, and friend and will be greatly missed by Cherielynn, his wife of 53 years; his children, Jay (Amanda) Kelley of Muskegon, Scott (Gloria) Kelley of Muskegon, Sean (Edith) Kelley of CA, Troy Kelley of Allendale, Carrie (Jordan) Silversmith of TX, Todd (Amber ) Kelley of Hart, and Morgan (Scott) Liskey of Whitehall; 17 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; brothers, William (Judy) Kelley of Muskegon, Charles Kelley of Hart, and Randy (Lisa) Kelley of Walkerville; sisters, Norma Jean (Tim) Flahive of Whitehall, Kathy DeNio of Fruitport, Ruth Ann (Edward) Burkert of Whitehall, and Sherry (Dave) Jarka of Muskegon; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 4:00 PM Friday, April 26, 2019 at Sheridan Drive Baptist Church, 84 S. Sheridan Dr., with Rev. Stephen Rumley officiating. In lieu of flowers, MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS may be made to Pound Buddies of Muskegon or Harbor Hospice Foundation. Arrangements by The Sytsema Chapel, 737 Apple Ave. 231-726-5210. Share memories with the family at their online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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