Sanford "Mark" Kelley

Birth date: Jul 23, 1948 Death date: Aug 10, 2025

Sanford “Mark” Kelley, age 77, of Grand Haven and Tucson, Arizona, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at home, surrounded by his family. He was born in Grand Haven to Charles and Ethel (Borchers) Kelley. Mark was a wanna b Read Obituary

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Scott Parker

7w ago

Mark and Kris were among our first friends at Voyager RV resort in Tucson and certainly were among our reasons for returning every winter since (12 years). We will always remember him for his strong commitments to service and improvement, whether it be to his many philanthropic interests, his friendships, or his pursuit of the perfect golf swing. Regardless of the activity, it always appeared to me that Mark was ALL IN and always a positive influence on outcomes. We’ll miss him.

Scott & Janet Parker

Roger Anderson

7w ago

Mark was a super human being and fellow veteran whom we deeply respected!
I got to work with him as he led in 2 Spring Lake Class Reunions in 2006 and 2016! He will be sorely missed by all remaining fellow classmates!

Roger Anderson

George A Cousins

8w ago

I had the privilege of meeting and enjoying lunch with Mark Kelley at the American Dunes Golf Club in late summer of 2023. Mark had made arrangements for our son Chris and me to play a round of golf that day which was a real treat. As the son of an American soldier, who gave his life in WWII (European Theater), I was pleased to honor him and all who have given their lives in defense of America, during the 1 pm playing of Taps at the course Flag.
We pray God's blessings for Mark's wife Kristine and his entire family, and all those who had the opportunity and honor of knowing and sharing their lives with Mark. I will look forward on God's schedule when Mark and I will meet again, perhaps when we may both meet my earthly father. Praise the Lord!

George Cousins

John Siemion

8w ago

I’m deeply grateful for the time I was able to spend with Mark at the recent Moon Day Party—moments I will always treasure. His passing is a poignant reminder of how precious our time together is, and how important it is to hold on to the memories we’ve built over the years.

Mark was more than a friend to me—he was like a brother. We shared countless moments of laughter, support, and understanding. It was Mark who first drew me into helping with our class reunions over 20 years ago, and his enthusiasm and dedication have been an essential part of every gathering since. As we look ahead to our 60th reunion, it’s hard to imagine the planning without his steady hand, sharp mind, and remarkable organizational skills.

Mark’s friendship enriched my life in ways words can barely capture. I will miss him immensely, but I take comfort in knowing that the bond we shared and the memories we made will remain with me forever. His kindness, humor, and unwavering friendship leave a legacy in my heart that time will never erase.

Tina Minarik

8w ago

Hello Kris,
We send our love and prayers. Remembering all the sailing times and races, the cat - Mate, the Necco candies, the wine corks, yummy dinners, a little golf and lots of fun times. Wonderful memories. May the Peace of God be with you. Blessings and love, Tina and Jerry Minarik

Tina Minarik

8w ago

Kris, we send our love and prayers. Remembering all the sailing and sailing races, Necco candies, the famous cork's, the CAT - Mate! So many trips. We love you, please accept our Condolences.
Tina and Jerry Minarik

Rebecca Viola

8w ago

We met over fifty years ago in the jungles of Vietnam. We kept in touch all these years. We did some traveling. Kris and Becky spent hours researching our destinations and Mark always found us the best pastry, the best cheese, the best brauhaus just around the corner! I’ll miss my friend. Until we meet again.

Mike Viola

Rebecca Viola

8w ago

Mark worked tirelessly to make life better for others through his work with the Folds of Honor, through sponsoring community experiences with the mentally/physically in his local area and his work with veterans. We will miss you!

Rachel Rick

8w ago

One thing I always appreciated about him, even from when I was a kid, was how he never talked down to you. He had a way of making you feel heard and respected, no matter your age. He spoke to you like an equal, and you could tell he was genuinely interested in what you had to say.

As one of the oldest in a very big group of his cousins, he really set the tone...always kind, thoughtful, and just a class act through and through. I always enjoyed any time I got to spend around him. He will be missed by many.

Meg Weesner

8w ago

Mark and his wife Kris were both members of the Rotary Club of Vail Arizona - transferred from the Rotary Club in Grand Haven. He contributed to many projects and fundraisers, particularly ones that involved veterans. We enjoyed his winter residency in the Vail community, and he was able to involve the community where he lived when in Arizona. Back in 2013, I was delighted to visit Mark and Kris at their home in Grand Haven, as I was traveling nearby. (My mother grew up in Sault Ste. Marie, so we had common Michigan roots.) We Vail Rotarians really appreciate all that Mark contributed to the Vail Rotary Club and to the Vail AZ and Tucson communities. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

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