James is survived by his children, Colleen Kelly and Cindy Siterlet, Tim Kelly and Mille Shepherd-Kelly, Daniel; 3 Grandchildren Kevin and Sarah Kelly, Patrick and Jordan Kelly, and Sara and Keith Thompson and 1 great grandchild Brooks.
Aside from his parents, James is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Kelly as well as many close friends and neighbors.
James joined the Navy after trade school in the Detroit area in 1943. He served in the Pacific as a Navy SEEBEE in the construction battalion in the Hawaiian Islands and Guam during WWII. He was awarded two medals of service. He proudly served until war officially ended and returned to Detroit area. He strongly believed in his country and remains a proud member of VFW Bruce post #1146 in St Clair Shores.
Dad was close to God and the catholic faith and served many years as an usher at St Joan of Arc.
Spent a number of years building a realty company in the local community. Dad remodeled countless homes. Dad felt like he started the house flipping craze that swept the nation!
Spent many summers with his family on a cabin cruiser fishing and cruising Lake St Clair. He enjoyed extended vacations, holidays and extended periods in northern Michigan with family and friends.
Dad was well known in the community and made friends easily, he was always kind and cheerful and eager and generous to assist others.
A memorial mass for James will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at St Joan of Arc Catholic Church (22412 Overlake St, Saint Clair Shores, MI. 48080).
Memorial luncheon immediately following at VFW Bruce Post, 28404 Jefferson Ave, Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Michigan Heart Association and the VFW Bruce Post.
