Charles Herbert Kelly

Charles “Charlie” Herbert Kelly, 90, of Brea, California, passed away, Friday, January 20, 2017. Charlie was born January 18, 1927 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada to Percival and Isabel (Unsworth) Kelly. On May 26, 1951, he married the former Zilda Eva May Dion. They were married for 64 years prior to her death in May, 2015. Charles knew Zilda since she was about 5 years old. Charles was a friend of her brother and in the same class as her sister, Elsie.  They started dating after high school and while Charlie was in the Navy. After the navy and while still in Canada, Charles drove a bus for the city of Vancouver. In 1956, he and Zilda immigrated to US and purchased a home in Anaheim, California. Charles initially drove a bus for Greyhound Bus Line, but found his passion in Retail Sales where he spent the next 30 plus years managing stores for Two Guys, FedMart and Builder Emporium.  After spending 20 years in Anaheim they migrate south to Laguna Hills for 35 years before moving into Assisted Living in Brea.  They belonged to St. Boniface Parish in Anaheim and then St. Nicholas in Laguna Hills.  Charles was predeceased by his only brother Art & Diane Kelly, and in-laws Lomer Dion, Cecil & Anne Dion, John & Lucille Bush, Howard & Myrta Treacher, and Alec MacNeil. Charles is survived by his sisters-in-laws, Elsie Mosdell and Rita Dion. Charles is also survived by: Three children; Pat Kelly (Melanie), Mike Kelly (Connie) and Robin DiThommaso, (Larry).  Nine grandchildren; Brandon Kelly (Kelley), Shannon Acevedo (Mike), Cherish Cassidy, Erin Guthrie (Cody), Sean Kelly, Cassie Morton (Dave), Adam Sabin, Alex Sabin (Camilla) and Dominick DiThommaso.  Nine great-grandchildren; Megan and Mason Kelly, Scottlyn and Nixon Acevedo, Gino, Dean, and Darin Morton, and Tanner and Ryder Guthrie. Charlie was family centered. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.  Charlie loved to fish and work with his hands. Vacations always involved camping, fishing, and of course trips to Canada to spend time with family.  Charlie and Zilda managed a few cruises including one for 17 days through the Panama Canal, but really preferred spending time with family.  Charlie was a real people person, outgoing, and fun to be around. Just ask any of his 35 nieces and nephews, well almost any of them.  Charlie had a sharp wit and was always good for a laugh. Charlie will be greatly missed by all that knew him.