Kelly Kuzik

He attended Paradise Elementary and Orr Middle Schools. Kelly was a graduate of Valley High School, Class of 1981, and University of Nevada, Las Vegas where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel Administration in 1986.

During his time at UNLV, Kelly was a highly knowledgeable, entertaining, and well-liked and respected DJ at KUNV (where he served as a host for the popular “Nothing but the Blues” program for several years) and he even did some writing for The Rebel Yell college newspaper.

One of Kelly’s earliest jobs was working on the buffet line as well as being a prep cook at Caesar’s Palace, which turned out to be an interesting experience that included an amusing encounter with the iconic Frank Sinatra.

He served his country in the United States Navy from 1988-92 with the majority of his time spent on the USS Nimitz, which took him around numerous ports of call in Asia. Upon discharge Kelly had attained the rank of Intelligence Specialist Petty Officer 3rd Class.

While living back in Las Vegas, Kelly served the State of Nevada for 24 years. He began his career in 1992 with the Nevada State Industrial Insurance System as a compliance officer. He joined the Taxicab Authority in 2003 where he became a Management Analyst II.

Kelly was a devoted family member and friend who passionately loved music, cooking and was also involved in a local Chevy car club and would display his beloved 1965 Chevy Impala, which he rebuilt doing much of the work personally.

Kelly is survived by his brother, Jason Kuzik, sister-in-law, Sandy Kuzik, nephew Jared Kuzik; longtime companion, Dawn Tuffanelli, all of Las Vegas and sister Tracey of New Jersey. Kelly was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services are set for June 11, 2016 11am at Palm Mortuary, 7600 Eastern Ave., in Las Vegas.