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John McKelvey Obituary

John Patrick McKelvey (1940-2008) Passed away on April 26th, 2008 after a long illness. He is survived by his wife Susan, daughter Lisa (Rick) Bulka, stepdaughters Holly Leckie (Bryce), Alexis Gehringer (Mark), grandchildren Ashley Bulka, Taylor and Ashton Leckie, and Paige and Chase Gehringer, siblings William F. McKelvey and Dennis McKelvey of Westminster, Colorado, Maureen Dignum and Karen Bergert of Arvada, Colorado. He is preceded in death by his parents William and Laura McKelvey and first wife Donna. John was born on August 28th, 1940 in Denver, Colorado. He served his country in the US Army for over a decade where he developed a love for competitive shooting on the US Army Pistol Team and became one of the premier competitors in the nation. After leaving the armed forces, he worked for Epcon Sign Company in Denver. In 1971 he was transferred to Thompson Industries in Phoenix, Arizona where he raised his beautiful family ultimately retiring as the Sr. Vice President of Human Resources for WinCup in 2006. John lost his beloved wife Donna in a tragic accident in 1999. Through the kindness of friends he met Susan Nelson and their families were joined in March, 2001. By any measure, John led a successful and fulfilling life, excelling in every aspect, whether at work, at the pistol range or on the golf course. But most of all John loved his family and they loved him in return. Although he leaves us too soon, we are grateful for our time together and we celebrate all that he brought to our lives. The family wishes to thank John's dedicated medical team at Banner Neuroscience Center, Dr. Todd Levine and the wonderful nurses and staff of Hospice of the Valley for their dedication and loving care. A memorial service will be held at Hansen Desert Hills Chapel, 6500 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, Arizona at 11 am, Saturday, May 3rd, 2008. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to PNA Neurological Research, 1331 N. 7th St., Suite 350, Phoenix, Arizona 85006. Family Owned

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Published by The Arizona Republic from May 1 to May 2, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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Rita Walter

May 4, 2008

Dear Susan:
I was heartsick to hear about John. It was John's kindness and assistance that help me through the worst part of Jack's death. I am so sorry for your loss.

Rollie and Blanca Rankin

May 3, 2008

John was a great human being and remains an example by the intelligent and compassionate manner in which he conducted his life. I worked for and with John for 10 years. I recall every day the guidance he offered and the way he dealt with everything that came his way with professionalism and grace. He was sorely missed at work the second he retired, and so much more now that he has passsed on. Many have said it before me but the world is in fact a lesser place without him.

Michael Kennedy

May 2, 2008

It was with great sadness and sense of loss, that I learned of the passing of John. John cared so much for everyone around him and especialy his family. I was blessed to have worked with John for 15 years. We all appreciated his professionalism, kind spirit, sense of humor, always giving and caring for his colleagues.
My sympathy to his family and all his friends. John was a great man and a good friend to many. I will always remember him fondly and cherish our time together.

Michele Baker

May 1, 2008

I was deeply saddened to hear about John's passing. He was a great leader/boss and dear friend! I only got to work for John for about 3 years at WinCup, but, I can truly say that the was the best leader/VP that I have even known! WinCup lost a great leader when he retired and the world lost a wonderful person when he passed away!

May you find comfort knowing that he is at rest and always with you in spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

KERRY CORDRAY

May 1, 2008

WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY
WE ARE SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS

Tom Jenniges

May 1, 2008

The world lost a great man with the passing of John. I always held John in the highest regard and respect. We worked together for over 30 years and he helped me a lot with his insight, wisdom, positive attitude and his friendship.
Accept my sincere sympathy for your loss. John will be deeply missed and my prayers go out to his family.

John was a wonderful man.

Wilma Fellars

May 1, 2008

I was so sad to hear of John's passing. Please accept my deepest and sincere sympathy for your loss, let your memories bring you great comfort now and in the future years. I worked at Thompson Industries for 25 years - I knew John for 17+ of those years. I truly felt I had a great and sincere friend in him. He was a wonderful man. Accept my sincere thoughts and prayers for you at this time. Wilma Fellars

Mark Quale

May 1, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

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