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Robert Kelly Obituary

Robert P. Kelly formerly of Leominster, Vietnam War vet; 71 CLINTON Robert P. Kelly, 71, formerly of Leominster, died on Wednesday, October 29, 2008, after a lengthy illness. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Patricia (Lazarek) Kelly; seven sons, Robert W. Kelly and his wife, Annmarie, John P. Kelly and his wife, Kristen, Peter J. Kelly and his wife, Rebecca, all of Seattle, WA, James M. Kelly and his wife, Rebecca of Clinton, William R. Kelly and Patrick R. Kelly, both of Old Greenwich, CT, and Steven P. Kelly and his wife, Jamie of Norwalk, CT; three loving daughters, Kathleen Marks and her husband, Gregory of New York City, Teresa Farley and her husband, Alfred of Middleboro, and Joanne Geiger and her husband, Joseph of Merrimack, NH. He leaves three brothers, Raymond Kelly and his wife, Zita, and Joseph Kelly and his wife, Kathy, of Clinton, Lawrence Kelly and his wife, Doreen of Germany; and a sister, Marilyn Hartigan and her husband, Thomas of Hubbardston. He is survived by 21 grandchildren, Grace Marks, Lucy, Emma, Aidan, Dominic, Nora, Andrew, Francis, Robert, Rachel, Isaac, Veronica, Elias, Marianne, Elizabeth, Simon and Owen Kelly, Matthew and Nicholas Farley, Cecilia and Eloise Geiger, and two expected grandchildren. He leaves his mother-in-law, Dorothy Lazarek of Rochester, NY; numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. Mr. Kelly is preceded in death by four brothers, William, James, Daniel, and Jack Kelly, and five unborn grandchildren. Robert was born in Leominster to the late John and Caroline (O'Neil) Kelly. He attended local schools and was a graduate of the St. Bernard High School Class of 1956. He attended St. John's University in New York, and later enlisted in the United States Army to proudly serve our country during the Vietnam War. A career entrepreneur, Mr. Kelly served as a founding member of the Trivium School in Lancaster, and sat on numerous boards and committees throughout his lifetime. He took great pleasure in assisting others and lending counsel to all who sought his advice. His magnanimous spirit and intellect will be sadly missed by family and friends, but fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure to have known him. KELLY Funeral services are to be held on All Saints Day, Saturday, November 1, 2008 from the Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, 176 Water St., Clinton, with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10 A.M. in St. John the Evangelist Church, 80 Union St., Clinton. Burial is to follow at St. Leo's Cemetery in Leominster. Calling hours are to be held in the funeral home on Friday, October 31, 2008 from 5 until 8 P.M. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Robert P. Kelly to Eternal Word Television Network-5817 Old Leeds Rd., Irondale, AL 35210. Online condolences may be placed at www.philbincomeaufh.com

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Published by Sentinel & Enterprise on Oct. 30, 2008.

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Kathleen Wells

November 16, 2008

To the Kelly family ~ Your father and family are in my prayers. Sincerely, Kathleen Wells

Kathleen Kelly Marks

November 6, 2008

I would like to add my thanks to all the dear friends and family who have posted here. I have always known that my father was much loved, but it is overwhelming to see all of that love at once, and to have it extended and shared with all of his children is appreciated beyond measure. For those who knew some of us, but not the man, I think I safely speak for all when I say that we will continue to try and reflect our father's light. To Dad: I miss you every minute, and I love you, as always, according to our bond.

KK

Andre Gelinas

November 6, 2008

To the entire Kelly Family -- St. Bernard's High School Class of 1956 has lost a most valued member. Even in his high school years, Bob showed that thoughtful independence and caring for others that became the hallmark of his life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Andy Gelinas
President, STBHS Class of 1956

Melissa Schools

November 6, 2008

Dear Kathleen, John, Peter & Jim:
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your dad. I am moved by all the loving remembrances I've read about him. We will keep you, your families and your dad in our nightly prayers.
Love,
Melissa Truman Schools

Rebekah Lamb

November 5, 2008

My prayers are with the whole Kelly family. While I did not know Robert Kelly personally, Joanne is a dear friend. And the way she dealt with her father's illness, and the way she is as a person, proves that she comes from a very special and beautiful family.
[Resurgam!]

Bonnie Fanning

November 5, 2008

My dear Pat, you and the kids have been in my thoughts and prayers at daily Mass this past week since you phoned me last Wed.

So many memories come to mind since our meeting each other in the fall of 1970 in Bray, Ireland.

If Bob hadn't been one to "think outside the box" I would never have met you! What a character!

Even tho most years we only caught up with Christmas letters I always thought of you as one of my very best friends. You were an inspiration to me over the years, and as we live out our final days getting ready to move on to our real home I'm hoping we can have more phone contact.

Sam and I will always treasure that call from Bob on Oct 4th to say good-by. It was heart breaking and yet such a gift to hear him tell us he was ready to "go home".

This must be a very busy time for you now as you sort through the past year and all you've been thru.

Phone me soon when you can talk - or e-mail me.

I've prayed to Bob to look after my Chris in LA who is another one to think outside the box. They would understand each other.

I love you, Pat!

Bonnie & Sam Fanning

Kara Johnson

November 5, 2008

To all the Kellys I had the privilege of knowing through Thomas More College, but especially my classmate Peter, and Mrs. Kelly,

What fond memories I have of Mr. Kelly's visits to the College! His warmth, attentiveness and encouragement--it comes down to his evident (twinkling!) appreciation for each soul God put before him--is something I will always remember.

The greatness of soul your father had is something each of you reflected. I know I can count on his intercession for me.

I wish I could be there to offer you all my support, and I do send my prayers. I will remember him and you all in my daily Mass.

Affectionately,
Kara (TMC class of '93)

Christopher Aubrey

November 5, 2008

Dear Kellys,
It seems fitting that Bob was burried with the Saint on all Saints Day! He had a way of relating to so many on such a deep level. He always seemed to see right through you. I confess that I wondered if maybe it was just me, but after reading the many that experienced the same, I think not. I am greatful for knowing him. His compassion and wisdom is something I will remember especially as I prepare for Priesthood. May he be greeted by the Saints. I'm sure he will know many, and they will know him.

Michele Dominguez

November 4, 2008

Dear Bob, John and Kathleen and the whole Kelly Family:

I am sorry to hear of your Dad passing away. You are all in my prayers during this difficult time.

Michele Kerin Dominguez

Katy (Borse) Wilson

November 4, 2008

Dearest Kelly Family,

Our love and prayers go out to you. I have such fond memories of "Paddy's Dad" as he was known to me. I find comfort knowing that we all have one more advocate in Heaven! May he rest in peace.

We love you!

For Todd, Aidan, and Cael Wilson -

Rob Nichols

November 3, 2008

To the entire Kelly family,
I am so saddened to learn of Bob's passing and so sorry for your loss. I will remember Bob and all of you in my daily prayers.
Sincerely,
Rob Nichols

Genevieve Kelly

November 2, 2008

Oh Uncle Bob... I Love you very much. Right now I am at home lying in bed just thinking about you and our family and how blessed we all are. I should be at Jimmy's 40th birthday party with the rest of the clan but for some reason I crave solitude right now so this is where I find myself. I told Maria today that I keep thinking of more things I want to talk to you about and I want your words of wisdom but now you are in the best place any of us can ever hope to be, so I will continue to talk to you from here and will listen for your thoughts. You told me that everything will be ok, and your words to me over the last couple of months have more meaning than anyone will ever know. You have the most beautiful family...Aunt Pat and your incredible kids and gorgeous grandkids. You did good!! And what can we say about Caroline...the beautiful Angel of our Family who was so lovingly and unselfishly there for you.

Uncle Bob...I want to thank you more than anything for showing me what it is to be at peace with Life and with Death. I know you are with my Daddy right now who I still miss so desperately. I just can't wait to have a huge Kelly Reunion in Heaven! Of course, that's if I make it there! Yikes!!

Please give kisses to Aunt Tessie, Uncle Jack, Uncle Jim and Aunt Aurora for me ok. You are with your Mother now and I am so happy for you for that...and I also can't wait to meet the Grandmother I never knew! But most of all, give the biggest and warmest hug and kiss to my Dad...and you guys can start up your card games again!

I Love You Uncle Bob...I miss you and I thank you. And everything WILL be ok.

Genevieve :)

Shawne Love-Picariello

November 1, 2008

Dearest Pat and to all the rest of Bob Kelly beloved family; Pat I was shocked a few minutes when I was informed of Bob's passing. A syou know he was special to both you and I. Remember Aunt Tessie and how Bob would visit her. I know so much time as passed by yet both of you have remained in my thoughts. Now I know where you all have moved around but Pat I will be in touch. My deepest sympathies go out to each and everyone of his family members. We all are better for having Bob in our lives. Yes he had a special twinkle for all and a smile that made everything all right.

November 1, 2008

Dear Kelly Family,

This family has had a presence in my life since I was very young. I was fortunate enough to meet Bob and Kathleen in Dallas through my brother Greg and then to have Paddy as my best friend at TMC. I have fond memories of short weekends at the Kelly house as well as a two week stay at the beginning of one summer. Mr. Kelly always welcomed me in as a member of the family. I am honored to have been able to have known him and this wonderful family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Yours,
Emily (Borse), David, Norman and Evelyn Labbe

Francesca Conte

October 31, 2008

Dear Bill and the whole Kelly family,

I'm so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He always had a big smile and kind words for everyone. He truly was a wonderful man and will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Love,
Frannie (Campagna) Conte

Beth Letters

October 31, 2008

Uncle Bob,
As I prepare for the trip to your funeral, I do so with a heavy heart. It means I won't be greeted by your huge smile, twinkling eyes and warm embrace. I can picture that embrace...your gray cardigan, scruffy beard scratching my face and all...It will always remain a happy memory for me!
We are relieved to know you suffer no longer and hope all those here find peace!!
You are missed!
Love, Beth, Mike, Liam ,Rien Letters

Patrick Kelly

October 31, 2008

Paps...you always knew what to say, when to say it and how to make us understand it. You were a visionary in the truest sense of the word and i know you will continue to guide us from heaven. i am proud to be your seventh son. i love you!

Kevin & Cindy Kelly

October 31, 2008

Uncle Bob, words do not adequately suffice here. Words can give comfort to those close to you, left without you. Words can be cathartic to those writing them, to help them through the uncertainty of loss through death. But the overwhelmingness of the hole left in our family can’t be soothed with words. If the measure of a man is counted by those that have been drastically affected by your presence on this earth, I’m not sure we’ll ever stop counting. God Bless Bob, enjoy the rest of your life in God’s love. That side is better for it, ours will muddle on.

Lucy

October 30, 2008

I miss you so much grandpa! thank you for always being there for me!

rest in peace grandpa big-beard

love always,

Lucy

Rebecca Kelly

October 30, 2008

I have been blessed with the honor of knowing you and loving you. I will miss you very much.

Dana Webster

October 30, 2008

I am and have always been heartened by the Kelly family and by your father and husband in particular. God's faithful servant will be missed. Love in Christ Dana, Susan, Sarah, Luke, Patrick, Maura, James, and Annah Webster

Paul Robichaux

October 30, 2008

Dear Kelly family--

Our family's thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of loss. If there is any comfort to be found, it is the knowledge that the Lord has received him with open arms.

Love,
The Robichaux family

Kevin & Anne kELLY

October 30, 2008

Dear Bob, now that you have lead the way we will surely follow you through that door in God's good time. But as long as you are there already please give a hug and a good word for us to Our Lord and brother Jesus the Christ.
We both found you to be amazingly creative, fun-loving, adventurous and faithful witness to the preeminent role of family and faithfulness.
Your family has learned and grown so gloriously through the humongous life decisions made by you and Pat -
from Spain to Ireland to the Catskills - coupled with the educational choices you encouraged
have created a Kelly army to which we proudly join the Rochester contingent.
What is the measure of a man? We are proud of you -you measure up just fine Bro!
To Pat and all those left behind - for now; accept the pain of loss with the sure understanding that it is a gift from God, a gift which you do not have to carry alone. Uplift each other and feel the strength of the Lord lifting right along with you.

Pardon the long-windedness perhaps your Dad, brother, husband and I share that trait. Greatest memories of you all -Bobby choking on a hot dog (scary, but worked out OK when your Dad and Mom pounded on you like a bongo drum) Uncle scary-hair, coined by Bri's youngest Evan and picked up by our Timmy. Going to some lake in the Leominister area and losing some of you for awhile. Jim and Becky's joining us this year at Beach Lake. More memories come to mind, like the incredible number of pancakes and sausage that flew out our kitchen window - not to mention the 14 sheet pizzas that you urchins descimated-we believe both of these to be family world records.
Certainly our physical get togethers were limited by family size, distance and finances but thats OK we can always joyfully access the warmth of those mega-cool times whenever we need a feel good tonic.
We are gladdened by the emails flying between some of you and some of ours during these sad final days.
Let's pray for each other -to the Robert and Patricia clan we are here for you - I'm not sure what that means but maybe we'll recognize if and when something comes up.
Hug your Mom for us. We should be there - we desire to be there - but we simply can't travel at this time

Love Aunt Anne & Uncle Kevin Kelly

Mark D. Boudreau

October 30, 2008

Dear Jim, Kathleen and Kelly Family,
I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Mark D. Boudreau

Teresa Farley

October 30, 2008

I miss you already, dad. my heart aches with grief, but I am comforted to know that you are no longer suffering and that you are watching over us from Heaven. I will never let Matthew and Nicholas forget you. I love you.

Gregory Borse

October 30, 2008

To Pat and the entire Kelly Family--Bob has a special place, as does the entire Kelly Family, in mine and my wife, Sheila's, hearts. Kathleen introduced me to Sheila and Bob gave Sheila away at our wedding. So, in a way, your family made possible my family--and I deeply appreciate it. Know that we are with all of you this weekend as ever.

Much love and admiration--

On behalf of Sheila, Elizabeth, Grace, Eamon, Liam, and Sophia--

Gregory Borse

frank mazzarella

October 30, 2008

One of the unique people in leominster and a man with a family worthy of a book or movie. He kept me up to date on the doings of his brother's world famous pop band the Kelly's. A real gentle soul who deserves the best of the afterlife.

Bob Kelly

October 30, 2008

I miss you Daddy'O. You were a great man and will live on in our hearts and in our stories. Thank you to all who have signed this guest book. Your support and prayers are getting us through this.

Suzanne Smith

October 30, 2008

Tom and Marilyn,
Lorenzo and I were so very sorry to hear about your brother. We think of you all so often and our prayers are with you and your family.
Sue and Lorenzo Smith

Rene Hebert

October 30, 2008

Our deepest condolences Marilyn and Tom on the death of your brother.Please know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Rene J. Hebert and
Doris M. Aubinger-Hebert

Mrs. Amideo Tocci jr.

October 30, 2008

Dear Jim, Rebecca, and all the Kelly families,
My prayers are with you at ths sorrowfull time in your lives.
Robert Kelly will always be with you ...in your hearts and in your memories of him.
Time and faith will help you get through these days and on to happier ones for you once again.

To Jim and Rebecca, my family's thoughts are with you and we send our sincere condolences to you and your family.....
and to Jim especially,.. my family knows the value of friendship when faced with the loss of a loved one. You were there for us when we had to face a great loss and we will always appreciate and be grateful for your friendship and your kindness.
God bless you.

Sincerely,
Patti, Joshua and Amanda, Steve and Lisa, and Scott

Tammy Choquette

October 30, 2008

His amazing family and children are a testament to his character. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Elizabeth Lambert Palumbo

October 30, 2008

I will miss you Bob. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

James Conry Headmaster STB

October 30, 2008

St. Bernard's Central Catholic High School will offer a prayer in memory of Robert this morning. Our condolences are offered to all the family members on this loss.

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