Steve Albert Kelly

Please join us in celebrating the life of Stephen Albert Kelly who passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family on July 6, 2024, in Dowling, Michigan.

Steve Kelly, beloved husband, a remarkable father, funny papa, but most importantly a child of the Most-High, Jesus Christ. Steve was born on September 8, 1949 and raised from Dayton, Ohio area. He attended the Ohio Soldiers and Sailors Orphan's (OSSO) Home in Xenia, Ohio.

Steve cherished his upbringing at the Home where he proved to be a talented musician, excelling on the trumpet, as well as an accomplished athlete who quarterbacked his football team and competed in hurdles. His face lit up whenever he told his stories from the "home". His fond memories growing up on that campus and the legacy that it provided to the children led Steve to become active in the Association of Ex-Pupil's. His years at OSSO were also a major factor in why family was so important to Steve.

Steve had two great loves in his life. Steve met the first, Susan Louise Smith in 1968, and by a God appointed moment he fell in love with Sue and her faith in God.  By God's grace, they shared 55 years of marriage that had valley and mountaintop experiences, but all shaping them to who they are today.

Steve and Sue built their family on Godly principles and put a lot of time and love into their children. Steve made hanging out with each other fun and always entertaining. The Kelly crew was called the "Brady Bunch" by our friends because they chose to hang out with their parents instead of their friends – even as teenagers! You just never knew what would happen on a family trip! He was a movie connoisseur who loved comedies (Blazing Saddles, Clue, and Young Frankenstein) along with ANY Sherlock book or movie.

His other love was woodworking. A dedicated educator with a PhD in Education, Steve taught for 34 years before retiring to pursue his passion for custom woodworking. Renowned for his craftsmanship, he delighted in creating custom cabinetry and furniture for family, friends and clients. His talent eventually extended to historic preservation, notably contributing extensively to the restoration efforts at White Shoal Lighthouse.

He was a loyal and best friend to many, always willing to lend a helping hand without ever seeking recognition. He enjoyed golfing with friends, fishing trips to Canada, and exploring Civil War battlefields along the East Coast with fellow enthusiasts.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, five children, ten grandchildren, and a wide circle of friends and family whose lives he touched profoundly. His legacy of faith, love, and craftsmanship will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

Steve, your time here has meant so much to so many, rest in the arms of Jesus and we will see you again.

Visitation will be this Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings, MI from 4pm-7pm.

Funeral Service will be this Friday, July 12, 2024 at Our Lady of Great Oak Catholic church in Dowling, MI at 11am. Our Lady of Great Oak Catholic Church, 6547 Lacey, Bellevue, MI 49021.  Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net .

Memorial Contributions for Steve A. Kelly may be made to:

Supporting Susan Kelly - https://www.givesendgo.com/GCVZM?utm_source=sharelink&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=GCVZM

AXP Museum
The Association of Ex-Pupils
160 Crockett Dr.
Xenia, OH 45385

Our Lady of Great Oak Parish
11137 Floria Road
Delton, MI 49046

White Shoal Light https://www.preservewhiteshoal.org/donate
4066 Coors Drive
Traverse City, MI 49684