John Joseph Kelly

John J. Kelly, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, at the age of 85. Born December 21, 1940, in the Kansas City area, he was the third of four children of Glenwood J. and Mary C. Kelly.

A lifelong resident of the Kansas City area, John attended St. Ann's grade school in Fairmont and De La Salle High School in Kansas City. He went on to study for two years at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, before earning his degree at Rockhurst University.

John married Rita Robke in 1964, and together they were blessed with three children. In January 2001, he met Kathy Oades and the two were married in September of that year, joining their families into a blended family.

John enjoyed a distinguished professional career. He spent thirty-one years at Armco Steel, beginning as an Industrial Engineering Clerk and retiring as a Superintendent in January 1993. He then served for ten years as a Quality Analyst at Honeywell Aerospace in Olathe, Kansas.

A proud United States Army veteran, devoted member of the Knights of Columbus, and faithful parishioner of Church of the Nativity, John lived a life grounded in faith, family, and service.

Nothing brought John greater happiness than spending time with those he loved. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer from the sidelines as his children and grandchildren played sports. He enjoyed running, golfing, BBQ, and enthusiastically supporting the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. He also found deep peace in God's creation, especially in the quiet joy of spotting hummingbirds. Those who loved him may find themselves smiling when one appears, remembering the gentle spirit, gratitude, and quiet wonder John carried throughout his life.

Of all the titles he was given in life, “Dad” was dearest to him, “Uncle” to his twelve nieces and nephews ranked a close second, and “Grandpa” held a place all its own — one he considered truly special.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Glenwood and Mary Kelly; his brother, Richard T. Kelly; and his first wife, Rita.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy; his three children, Mark Kelly (Laura), David Kelly (Karen), and DeAnne Dodd (Kevin); his seven grandchildren; his sisters, Rosemary Arb and Theresa Morris; and Kathy's children, Jay (Amy) and Julie, along with their children and grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Kansas, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. A private interment will take place afterward, with a Celebration of Life immediately following.