John C. Kelley III

A life long Stocktonian, John was born on January 27, 1962. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1980 and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a BS in Agricultural Business in 1985. Since graduation he helped run the family business, John C. Kelley Ranches, with his father, brother, sons, loyal employees and numerous business associates, too many to name.

John met his wife Nancy at Cal Poly and they married in 1988. They have three beautiful children together. Justin (30), Tyler (29) and Ashlyn (27). Justin and John shared a love of comic book collecting and spent many hours at conventions. Tyler and John shared a love of mountain biking and have put more miles on their bikes than can be tallied. Ashlyn and John had a love of all things “classic horror” and read many books and watched many movies together. All three will continue running the family business as the 4th generation.

He had many friends, some life-long, and loved spending time with all of them. He attended many 49er games, Giants games, and numerous concerts of too many artists to even name. He was a workout fanatic either running, weightlifting, cycling or playing racquetball. He especially enjoyed his yearly vacations; Dinky Creek with college buddies (34 years), Snowstorm Ranch for hunting, mountain bike riding, and very good food (37 years) and Mazatlán, Mexico spending Christmas with his parents and family (19 years). John and Nancy enjoyed sitting outside by the fire pit every evening, John with his cigar and bourbon and Nancy with her glass of wine. Music was playing, birds were feeding and bathing and of course many balls were thrown for their dog Bandit.

John is survived by his parents, Jack and Marilyn; his wife Nancy; his three children, Justin, Tyler and Ashlyn (Robert); his brother Mike (Joan); mother-in-law Chan (Jerry); sister-in-law Lesley (Jonny); brother-in-law Danny (Julie); and nephews, Jace (Mariah), Koby and Brodie. He is preceded in death by Chester Balbi, Helen Kelley, Evelyn Balbi, Gary Balbi and Curtis Spott. He was also affectionately known as “Dog Boy” and had many pet labradors though the years and is survived by his latest boy, Cooper and other furry family Bandit, Haylee and Tatum. Sadly, his beloved Eli passed away the day after John.

A celebration of his life will be held in the Spring of 2021. Since 2020 has been a difficult year for everyone, in lieu of flowers, please send donations to a charity/foundation of your choice in John’s honor. Condolences can be sent to www.deyoungshorelinechapel.com.