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Roy L. Kelley, 81

A much loved and Godly person.

Roy L. Kelley, of Post Falls, Idaho, went to see the Lord on May 2, 2017, at the Circle of Life at Kootenai Hospital. Our family’s hearts are broken, but we know he is at peace.

I appreciate all the love and care the Light and Life Fellowship Church has shown me and my family. Roy found his faith in the Lord with them.

Roy was born in Tecumseh, Okla., to Paul and Ruby (Wall) Kelley on Sept. 23, 1935. He grew up in California and attended school in Avenal. Growing up, he had a wonderful and very special friend, Olin Lambert, who was like a brother to him. Roy’s eyes lit up whenever he talked about his early years. Lots of great memories!

Roy first married in 1956 to Marjorie Jean Woods and had two sons, Patrick L. and Michael R. Kelley. He married again in 1970 to me, Catherine (Peake); and had two children, Richard L. and Brandy L. Kelley. Roy was a great father and loved his children dearly. He had a great love for, and spent lots of time with, his grandchildren, Amanda and Brandon Kelley. His other grandchildren live in California; Ian Kelley and Nicole (Kelley) Lovejoy; and one great-grandchild, Olivia Lovejoy. We loved to go and visit with them when we vacationed in California.

Roy joined the Navy in January 1955 and spent 20.5 years with them, retiring in 1975 as an E6 for his birthday present. He met me in Maryland where he was based. Roy traveled all over the world during his service time, including Vietnam from 1971-1972, to defend our country and keep us free. He was an Electronics Technician most of the time. Roy’s great friend and family member, William G. Herbert (Keno) served in the Navy with him; another brother in life, much loved by Roy. Roy also served at the end of the Korean War.

After Roy retired, he set off on a new career. He became an Appliance Technician for Sears and worked for them for 11.5 years in Fresno, Calif. He worked very hard and earned the award of Highest Paid Tech for two years because of the many hours he worked. He worked very hard to please all his customers.

We moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in 1986, and after a few moves, found home at 1065 N. Townsend Loop in Post Falls. Roy started his own business doing appliance repairs, Kelley’s Refrigeration and Appliance Repair, from 1987 until 2015 when he called it quits to enjoy retirement.

Roy and I traveled many places, but Hawaii was his favorite. It brought total peace and relaxation to us. Our best trip was with our grandchildren, Amanda and Brandon; when Amanda touched a sea turtle, they played with geckos, and we went to the beach each day. We also took them to Florida to see Disney World, Universal Studios, and other places. Such wonderful memories!

We went camping from the time we were married with Roy’s mom, Ruby; father-in-law Chuck; sister and brother-in-law, Lee and Keno. Roy also enjoyed camping with our other friends the Johnsons and Gants, their families and our grandkids. We had such good times and created many memories.

Roy read westerns every day and included his Bible for the past year. He also enjoyed working in his yard and we enjoyed working together in the garden.

Roy’s other love was hunting each year with his brother-in-law, Keno, and niece’s husband, Jerry. They never got much, but always had a great time together.

Roy enjoyed his life and had a big smile for everyone. His family meant everything to him. Much love to his children.

To Richard: Your dad loved you with every fiber in him. Thanks for being there for me; your dad would be proud.

Go in peace my Love, you will be so missed. God has you in his hands now. Rest in Peace.

Survivors include his wife, Catherine Kelley; Roy’s sons and spouses, Patrick and Sandy Kelley, Michael Kelley, Richard and Laura Kelley; Roy’s daughter, Brandy Kelley; sister and spouse, Lee and Bill Herbert; brother Lloyd Kelley; and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Roy was preceded in death by his brother, Floyd Kelley.

There will be a celebration of life scheduled at a later time. The date and time will be announced.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Roy’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.