Groff Funeral Homes
1607 East Perkins Avenue
Sandusky, OH 44870
Phone: 419-626-3632
Fax: 419-626-2445
Email: info@grofffuneralhomes.com
Website: http://www.grofffuneralhomes.com
View All Obituaries from Groff Funeral Homes
James L. "Grandpa" Kelley, 87, residing in Sandusky, and being cared for at the Providence Care Facility, passed away early Friday morning, September 8, 2017 at Firelands Regional Medical Center after a lengthy illness.
James was born on October 10, 1929 in Sandusky, OH to the late Robert Emmet and Gertrude (Linn) Kelley.
James was a 1947 graduate from Sandusky High School. He retired as a self-employed truck driver after 50 years of service. James was a member of the Sandusky Elks Lodge #285, American Legion Post 83, and the former IAB Club. During his younger risk-taking years, Jim raced stock cars; then after getting married, he switched to being a flagman at the Sandusky Speedway. He closely followed the Ohio sport teams, particularly The Ohio State Buckeyes; even when he and Marilyn spent their winters in Fort Myers, FL. In his spare time, he enjoyed golfing, playing pool, and especially spending time with his family and friends.
James is survived by his wife of 69 years, Marilyn (Brown) Kelley, (residing at Admiral Point Care Facility in Huron) whom he married Oct 17, 1948. He is also survived by his daughters, Lynda (Rick) Finneran and Jacque (Joe) Fresch both of Sandusky; sons, Dave (Gwen) Kelley and Dan (Kim) Kelley both of Sandusky; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandson; brother, Tom Kelley of Sandusky and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
In addition to his parents, James is preceded in death by his daughter, Candace L. Kelley in 2013; grandson, Chris Crittendon and sisters, Shirley Kelley and JoAnne Didion.
Friends may call on Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 9:30 am until the time of memorial services at 11:00 am at Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1607 E Perkins Ave, Sandusky. Rich Finneran will officiate. Burial will follow in Bloomingville Cemetery, Oxford Township.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to contribute to James' memory may do so to Back to the Wild, PO Box 423, Castalia, OH 44870 or to their favorite charity.
Condolences may be shared on line at www.grofffuneralhomes.com.
