From Mira Kehoe (musician friend and fellow traveler…)
Link to a short online music session (harmonica and voice) with Kelly during October, 2020:
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Kelly and I are partners in recovery for many years. We spoke a couple of times a week on the phone since covid, sharing about life, aging, family, dealing with physical pain, recovery, and his shopping escapades. Our talks would often end up in the spiritual realm; those were special moments. I would often call him when I was out walking, now when I go for out walking I miss his presence. I think of him often. He was a loving gentle man who could be surprisingly stubborn. I am glad we were able to share our strengths and weaknesses, the true definition of a friend. Love you Kelly
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I shared many a memorable evening with Kelly when he visited Bobby Crabb and I back on the West Bank many years ago. I will never forget an early Thanksgiving morning and Kelly at our door shouting over and over again "Happy Thanksgiving, Happy Thanksgiving!" to announce the birth of his daughter. I am so happy to hear what a wonderful life he had after those days. Kelly was a beautiful soul and I will always carry his memory in my heart.
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Julie Niewald
2021, Episcopal Homes, University Avenue West, Saint Paul, MN, USA
Years ago Kelly witnessed a very special moment in the pool with an elder I was working with. It was Jack’s last request which was to “float” in our lovely warm water pool. On this day, Kelly just happened to be in the pool already, as though waiting for us, When this special session was over, Kelly softly began singing Amazing Grace and as the elder was lifted from the water, Kelly’s arms raised as though in a blessing releasing him on his way. I will always hold this memory dear.
I loved seeing Kelly move through the water effortlessly. In those moments, he did not feel the ravages of Parkinson’s and he was so joyful. We, his pool friends, will miss his singing, harmonica, and iPad that recorded ALL.
We will always sing Amazing Grace and Somewhere Over the Rainbow in honor you, dear friend. We love you.
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Kelly was a blessing to all who were graced with his presence. I'll miss his Saturday morning "Kellyisms" and the many brunches we shared; the music jam sessions; the spontaneous outbursts of unanticipated harmonica at just the perfect inopportune moment. It's rare indeed to find such an open heart and joyful spirit in these strange times. For your freely given gift of presence, calm and clarity, I thank you and bless you. Travel well, my friend.
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One of a kind. He is missed. Condolences to all who loved him.
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Favorite Kelly quote “I was so desperate that if you told me the only way I could stay sober, was by rolling a peanut across the floor with my nose I would have told you, that’s stupid, that’s dumb, give me the peanut”. Thank you for the gift of your presence my friend! 💜
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Terri and I worked with dear Kelly many years at MIPH . Always recall his regular stop at Jerry's office, smile, raised fist on arm bent at elbow, saying, "Rock on."
Gentle soul, great humor, terrific trainer.
RIP Kelly. Rock on.
Jerry and Terri Jaker
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Kelly was my sponsor for the past 10+ years. He helped me stay sober through many challenges, including the loss of my brother, his teenage daughter, and my Mother. He reminded me they are still with me which comforts me.
We often got together to jam at his condo on Franklin Ave and then at his apartment at Episcopal Homes on University Ave. He loved going to Guitar Center and I knew when he asked for a ride there that it would take an entire afternoon. I will miss his counsel but I know he continues to be part of the fabric of the Universe. My condolences to Happy and Josh who he spoke of frequently. Whenever I hear a harmonica being played I will think of Kelly playing anywhere and everywhere. I will miss him dearly. Kevin Barton
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When Kelly joined our band it instantly got better fast. His musical talent was far beyond ours. He taught me how to just be myself. I have a dozen great stories, too long for here. Rest in peace Kelly.
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Kelly was a one-of-a-kind human, a deeply compassionate person who never lost touch with his playfulness and sense of wonder and delight in life. He was a joyful being and he adored his children. I was honored to be part of his life for a time, and think of him often and the gifts he gave me.
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Thank you for sharing Kelly’s story. I only knew small snippets of it. I’m grateful for the couple of video chats I had with Kelly over the past few years. I wish I had known him better. Sending much love from myself and my family to all of you.
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