Bill McKelvey

We are sad to announce the passing of Bill (Gordon) McKelvey April 10, 2026 at Sharp Hospital in Chula Vista, CA. He was an exemplary man born in Miller, SD September 9, 1944, He was raised in a great mid western town Highmore, SD. He was a star athlete, went on to graduate from Southern State in Springfield SD with a double major in business and math.

He married Patti Lee on September 4, 1966 and joined the Marine Corps, began officer training school in Quantico Virginia. He began Naval flight training learning to do his beloved flying, which included landing on carrier. He went on to DEA as an agent and pilot, flying fixed wings, jets, and helicopters.

The pride of his life Jeff and Jennifer were born in 1971 and 1973. He was actively involved in coaching and teaching Jeff to fly at his second home Brown Field. Bill never forgot his friends or his roots, always a part of Highmore SD Springfield University friends, Marine friends and DEA. An active parishioner at St. Pius Catholic Church 1120 Cuyamaca Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91911, where he served the Knights of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bud and Mary McKelvey and his great brother Jim. He has a wonderful sister Mary Ann who resides in GA. His children Jeff and Jennifer reside in CV, Along with a wonderful son-in-law Tommy. Also 4 nieces and nephews Bud, Jon, Kelley and Dixie. He has 4 grandchildren Patrick, Aiden, Kiley and Gavin. 2 great-grandchildren Kady and Kinsey.

He made the world a better place, An officer and a gentleman

The family requests donations made to St. Pius remodel in lieu of flowers