Michael E. Kelly, 69, of Ashland, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 23rd, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Allentown.

Born in Ashland, Michael was a son of the late Bernard and Theresa (Noon) Kelly. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas Kelly, and his sister, Karen Kelly Vorce.

Mike was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Ashland, and a proud graduate of Cardinal Brennan High School, class of 1974. He was employed as a grant analyst for the Pennsylvania State Department of Community and Economic Development, a role in which he took great pride. In addition, Mike was the longtime owner and operator of Kelly’s Corner Beer Distributor, a business well known throughout the community.

Mike was an avid runner and had a lifelong passion for golf, a sport he truly loved. He proudly participated in many local tournaments, forming lasting friendships along the way. Mike found joy in the camaraderie of golf trips, where laughter and friendship were always par for the course. Nothing brought him more peace than strolling the hallowed grounds of Augusta National during The Masters, savoring the moment with a cigar in one hand and a cocktail in the other.

Mike also dedicated much of his time to youth athletics. He coached both boys’ and girls’ CYO basketball and boys’ high school basketball at North Schuylkill High School where he was affectionately known as “Coach K.” He also served as a PIAA basketball referee, earning the respect of players, coaches, and fellow officials alike.

Mike was deeply proud of his Irish heritage and greatly enjoyed traveling to Ireland. He also had a love for cigars, good conversation, and sharing stories. A devoted Philadelphia sports fan, Mike was rarely seen without team apparel and could pair orange and green like no other—often sparking conversations with anyone who crossed his path. Mike thought long and hard about having the perfect outfit for each game or occasion. His hats were perfect, and always matched his shirt, pants and socks! Known for his sharp wit and gift for storytelling, he had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease.

Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Beverly J.(Galgay) Kelly, of Ashland; his son, Garrett Michael Kelly and his wife, Angela, of Harrisburg; four daughters: Erin Kelly of Suwanee, Georgia; Colleen Kramm and her husband, Eric, of Suwanee, Georgia; Nicole Kelly and her partner, Brittane Blankenship, of Philadelphia; and Lauren Kelly of Frackville; his two brothers, Bernard Kelly and his wife, Bridget, of Lewes, Delaware; Shawn Kelly and his wife, Sara, of Florida; his grandchildren: Ashley Goehrig and her partner, Akira Sanford; Michael James Goehrig and his wife, Riley; Zachary Goehrig; Mallory Kramm; Harper Kramm; Cameron Kelly; Adrianne Kelly; and Jordyn Kelly. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Parker and Baker, whom he loved dearly along with several nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, December 30th at 1:30 pm from St. Charles Borromeo Church, 1115 Walnut St., Ashland. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing at the church on Monday evening from 5 pm to 8 pm and again on Tuesday from 12 noon until the time of mass.

Sign the guestbook, leave personal condolences and for further information please visit www.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com

Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home Inc., Frackville and Girardville are in charge of the arrangements.