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Adrian Kelly Obituary
He was a fiercely loyal, loving and feisty Irishman who grew up in hard times in rural Ireland and never let himself, or anyone else, forget it. He was able to find joy and lessons in those memories all his life.
The 11th of 13 children born and raised in Tullow, County Carlow, Ireland, Adrian made his way to Canada, then traveled first to New York where he tended bar at the popular McGrath's watering hole in Queens. He then ventured north to Alaska to work on the pipeline before settling in San Francisco. It was in the City where he met and married his wife, Maureen, eventually becoming co-owners of Knights' Catering. Adrian was quite at home in his adopted city where he put down roots as an avid golfer, accomplished butcher and bartender. He drew strength from his friendships built at St Brendan's and Sacred Heart Cathedral. For 68 years, he was a man about town and a social butterfly who loved to stop on the street for a chat or drop by for a visit.
Adrian is survived by Maureen, his loving wife of 30 years, and adoring children: Molly (Hayden), Danny and Grace. He will be missed by his siblings: Canice, Stan, Nessa, Albert, Angela, Patrick, Joe and Desmond; and many nieces and nephews, whom he adored. He is preceded in death by siblings: Cyril, Kieran, Colum and Anne.
The family invites friends to visit on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 at 5:30pm and attend a Vigil Service at 7pm at St. Brendan Catholic Church, 29 Rockaway Ave (at Ulloa), SF. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, February 13th at 10am at St. Brendan Church, SF. Burial to follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, Colma.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society, St. Brendan School, and The United Irish Cultural Center Library.
Slan agus beannacht.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Adrian Kelly
Sponsored by Duggan's Serra Mortuary - Daly City.
Kathleen O'Brien Land
February 25, 2021
Mr. Kelly came into my life thru my parents. He became good friends with my dad during their Alaska days and remained in contact through the years. The running joke was he was mt Uncle Adrian as I was born 6 weeks early and was in the NICU and only family was allowed in yo see the baby. He told the nurse he was my Uncle. He catteered my wedding. He was a comfort to my mom after my dad's passing in 2011. He made some calls when my husband needed work and they ended working together at a few events over the years. He was always a background character in my life. He was just an all around good guy. I was very saddened to hear the news of his passing. Peace and love to Mrs. Kelly and the family. Hugs, upon hugs, upon hugs. Himself and my dad are enjoying a Crack up in heaven. Until we meet again my friend.
Martha OBrien
February 24, 2021
Shocked to hear of the passing of our old friend. Many memories of Denis & Adrian together with the tales, jokes & stories. Especial memory is our daughter's wedding & the wonderful reception he catered for us. Rest n Peace. Prayers for the family
Terry McVeigh
February 16, 2020
Just heard the sad news about Adrian, he was there for me if I need help with a function or opening my first bar.
Also enjoyed having a wee drop of good stuff with him.
May you rest in peace my friend.
Colleen Williams
February 13, 2020
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Adrian was a kind and caring gentleman. God Bless all of you, Colleen and Tim Williams
Ramesh Awal
February 13, 2020
Hello Mo,
I am shook to hear this and sorry for your loss. Stay Strong.
My Prayers with you .
Sheila Whooley
February 12, 2020
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Pat Kavanagh
February 12, 2020
Sincerest sympathies to the Kelly family on the passing of Adrian.
I went to school with Adrian in Tullow. I haven't met Adrian since about 1971. His name was often mentioned when I met old school friends.
May Adrian rest in peace.
Ar dheis dei go raibh a anam Dhilis.
Rosie and Jim Horan
February 10, 2020
Maureen and family,
We are so sadden to learn of Adrian's passing. He was such a gregarious man and always with a story or two to share. Whenever he was on campus, he'd make a "short" visit to the Dev. Office. He never failed to share words of his Irish wisdom!
Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Peace, Adrian.
Alicia Villagomez Dunphy
February 9, 2020
Dear Maureen and Family,
My deepest condolences to you on the passing of Adrian, I am sorry that I won't be able to attend the vigil and mass as I am presently in the UK . I was so appreciative of Adrian's kindness when my husband, Patrick, passed away. My prayers and blessings to you all.
Alicia Villagomez Dunphy
Andy Chan
February 8, 2020
Dear Maureen and Family,
I'm so sorry to hear this news. I just loved talking to Adrian....he did most of the talking and I only understood half of what he said....but I always walked away from a conversation with him with a smile and I felt loved. Sending love to the Kelly's. Will raise a pint for Adrian tonight!
February 8, 2020
I can't believe the shagger moved on. We had plenty of great times at St Brendans. I will cherish those moments forever. Your 50th Bday party was another night i will never forget. God Bless you adrian. May you enter into heaven with wide open arms. Until we meet again slainte.
Andrea Olcomendy
February 8, 2020
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my old Irish friend. We both left Ireland around the same time and became lifelong friends when we met in San Francisco.
Good night my old friend and may God keep you.
Walter McCarthy.
Sharon Ghilardi-Udovich
February 8, 2020
Dear Maureen and Family so very sorry for your loss you are in my thoughts and prayers. I will never forget Mr. Kelly trying to talk me into trying his special Irish cure for my cold! He was so sweet to my Mom , helping her into the car after a funeral reception. He certainly could flatter an old lady with that twinkle in his eye.
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