William R. "Bill" Kelly

Mr. William R. “Bill” Kelly, age 67, of Utica, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2008 in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on November 23, 1941, William was the son of the late Michael T. and Estella (Knicka) Kelly. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. A veteran of the U. S. Army, he served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. On August 28, 1971 he married the former Linda M. Shires with whom he shared 37 years in a loving and devoted union. At one time, Bill was employed with the Utica City School District. A very outgoing and affable person, he shared his love generously. His life was dedicated to the happiness and well-being of his loved ones and his family was always the most important part of his life. Warm-hearted and mild-mannered, Bill treasured the time spent with his grandson. He loved athletics and sporting events, enjoyed bowling, played baseball and basketball (affectionately known as “Wild Bill”), and also had a passion for singing. He frequented Ambrosia’s Bar to share in the comradery of his friends. He was a member of the Teamsters Union, and the Knights of Columbus, and he was a parishioner of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Bill is survived by his wife, Linda; his daughters, Kimberly M. Kelly, and Kristin L. Kelly, both of Utica; and his grandson, Jesse Pittman, who was the apple of his grandpa’s eye. Survivors also include his step-sisters and brother-in-law, Eleanor and Ernie Murawski of Marcy, and Dolores LaVentura of New Hartford; his step-brother, Eugene F. Armata of Utica; his mother-in-law, Maryat Shires; and his in-laws, Antoinette Kelly, Joseph Shires, John “Randy” and Elizabeth Shires, all of Utica; Marilyn and Thomas Hemmerick of Nevada, Carol and Bruce Alden of Utica, Patricia Shires and Peter Augustowski, Sherry and Terrance Lipinski; his nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging Michael Kelly and fiancée Sandy; Steven and Diane Kelly who affectionately referred to him as “Uncle Billy Fa Cosi”; Joyce and Fidel Sanchez, Lisa Mott, Linda Kelly, Terrance Murowski, Thomas Murowski, George M. LaVenture, and Gail M. Beacham; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and many friends especially acknowledging Francis Barberio, Tom Colluzzi, Paul Rizzo, Bob Loughlin, Matt Durr, Matt Worth, Ronnie Cousins, John Joswick and Joe Berretta. He was predeceased by his brothers, Michael T. Kelly, and John P. Kelly; his sister, Geraldine Hurd; his step-brother, Edward J. Armata; his father-in-law, Joseph Shires; and his friends, Frank Carbone, and Tony Barberio. The family is grateful to Dr. Fayez Chahfe and his staff, Dr. Fred Talarico and his assistant Pat Rosati, and the nurses of 3B at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, for their care and concern; and Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. for their compassion and vigilance. Visitation will be held Thursday (today) from 4:00-8:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The Knights of Columbus will join at the funeral home at 7:30 this evening for a prayer service. Bill’s funeral service will commence on Friday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

William R. "Bill" Kelly

November 23, 1941 - December 10, 2008