John T. "Jack" Kiely

John T. "Jack" Kiely Passed away on July 15, 2011 peacefully at home after a long battle with cancer. He was born on May 21, 1929 and raised in Oakland, CA. After graduating from St. Elizabeth's High school, he soon married his high school sweetheart, Maryann Flittner on May 27, 1950. He joined the Orinda Fire Department in 1951 and worked his way up to Captain. Looking to the future, he sought a higher position and became the Fire Chief of Colusa in 1977. Upon retirement in 1982, they moved to Jackson, CA and began his new passion, woodcarving, and continued for 28 years. He had exhibits at many California State Fairs, the Capital Woodcarvers and various shows and fairs throughout Northern California. He produced sculptures that were purchased all over the Americas and in other countries as well. He taught others the art of woodcarving in classes at several locations. Birds were his favorite subject, he also carved caricatures and carousel horses. The lifelike quality of his work was so remarkable that Fish and Game Officials were called to investigate a Red Tailed Hawk he carved because they were told it was a stuffed bird. He received countless awards and numerous "Best of Show" along with providing live demonstrations at the local fairs. His work can be seen in the Visions Gallery in Yuba City. Jack also shared many passions with his family. Among the biggest were fishing, rooting for his favorite team, the San Francisco 49'ers, and was a BIG local soccer fan. If the team included his son or grandchildren, you could count on Jack to be filming the games or carrying on constructive criticism with soccer officials. Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Maryann, his son, Garry of Shingletown, daughter, Diane McClean (Greg) of Shingletown, son Dan Kiely (Toni) of Colusa. He is also survived by four granddaughters, Amy Lou Mitchell, Jill McClure, Amber Kiely, Kelsie Kiely and five great grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, at 12 noon on Saturday, July 23. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1560 Hazel in Gridley, CA , 846-2140. Send Condolences to www.appealdemocrat.com