HOWARD EARL KELLY's Obituary
Howard Kelly passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on December 30, 2016 at the age of 92.
Howard is survived by his devoted wife Ann, of 69 years, his five children: Susan (Randy); Larry (Julie); Danny, Janie (Steve); Patty (Dennis) and six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his beloved grandson Patrick. Howard also leaves behind his sister, Lois and numerous nieces and nephews.
Howard was a World War II veteran who enlisted in the U.S. Army on his 18th birthday, March 12, 1943. He fought in the Philippine Islands of Leyte, Mindoro, Palawan and was wounded in Mindanao on March 30, 1945. Howard lost the middle two fingers on his right hand and was fondly known by his friends as “Three Fingers Kelly”. Howard received two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart for his service in the Philippines.
Howard, a devout Catholic was active in his Church. He was involved with Scouting for over 40 years. He became actively involved with Explorer Post 1 in the early 1960’s, the oldest explorer post in the world sponsored by Eastern Air Lines. Howard’s “scouting family” grew and to this day many of the young men stop by his home to visit and bring their children. At Howard’s 80th surprise birthday party, many of his former scouts flew into Miami from around the country to celebrate and share funny stories about their adventures together. Howard lived a full and beautiful life. He led numerous hikes through the Cascades Mountains in the State of Washington, the Appalachian Trail, the Chilkoot Trail in Alaska, white-water rafting in Alaska, Canoeing in Minnesota., Maine and Canada, bicycling through Ireland and the list goes on.
Besides the passion and love Howard had for his wife and children, he also had the same passion and love for his “scouting family.” The Kelly family was happy to share their dad with them. Dad had enough love to go around!
The family wants to recognize the special contributions from his longtime devoted care givers, Maribel Castaner and Gladys Rodriguez. Also, a special thanks to Ms. Shirley from Vitas Hospice and the Miami VA who have also been very supportive during Dad’s illness. Thanks to you all who have been there at his side. He will be greatly missed by his loving family, friends, scouts and church community. Thank you Dad for all your love…Good Night and God Bless You!
In lieu of flowers the family wishes for donations to be made to Blessed Trinity Catholic Church “Children’s Adoration Chapel.”
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