Dennis Kelly

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Dennis “Denny” Kelly, 78 of Oregon, passed away peacefully on Feb. 12, 2021 after a short illness. He was born June 2, 1942 in Chicago, the son of Edward and Grace (Miller) Kelly.

Denny spent his early years in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood where he lifeguarded on Lake Michigan and followed his beloved Chicago Cubs during the summers. Denny graduated from Lane Technical High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Army shortly after. Denny settled in Oregon with his young family in 1969, where he became very active in the community, serving on the Park District and School Boards. He also volunteered to announce basketball and football games as well as scribing sports articles for the local newspaper, naming as many players as possible so everyone could see their name in print. 

Denny had a lifelong passion for singing and you could often find him singing at wedding ceremonies (and later at receptions)! He amassed a treasured network of friends and was always a welcomed addition to any party. His later years were shared with his adored wife Deb, who he married Aug. 17, 1996 and was his rock and devoted caretaker. 

Survivors include wife Debra, son Sean (Mari) Kelly of Camas Wash., step children Jimmy (Heidi) Engel of Apache Junction Ariz., Angie Engel of Oregon and Allison (David) Schnitzler of Wheaton, grandchildren Jack, Danny, Nora and Tommy Kelly of Camas Wash., and step grandchildren Tyler Engel of Rockford and Austin (Tanya) and Parker Rowland of Oregon.

Preceded in death by his parents Edward and Grace Kelly, and brother James Kelly.

A memorial fund is established in Denny’s name for the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital. Services were private and a celebration of life memorial will be announced and held at a later date.