Robert Kelty

CLARK LAKE, MI – Robert J. Kelty, age 94, formerly of Ogden Center and Liberty Township, passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at Victorian Manor. He was born May 15, 1922, in Twin Falls, Idaho, the only son of the late Orville and Vera (James) Kelty. After graduating from Twin Falls High School he attended Huntington College. His studies were interrupted while Bob served as a crew member on a B17, based in England, in the Army Air Force during World War II. Returning from service, Bob completed his Bachelor’s Degree and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Reading from Michigan State as well as a Specialist’s Degree. Bob was married to Dora Caswell in August of 1947. She preceded him in death in 1981, having been blessed with 34 years together. In 1985, he married Mary (Haberstich) Waterson, and she survives. For five years Bob taught school in Michigan City, Indiana, where he was also the junior high school basketball coach. He was a teacher and reading specialist for Tecumseh Public Schools, retiring with 30 years of service. Summers were spent with his family in the state of Washington where Bob worked 30 years as a Park Ranger at Olympic National Park. During Christmas and spring breaks, he traveled with his family throughout the United States visiting all states with the exception of Hawaii. He was a great story teller who inspired several of his students to become teachers. Bob was proud of his family, his service to his country, his years as a teacher, and sharing nature as a park ranger. He was a member of Zion United Brethren Church. In addition to his wife, Mary, he is survived by his children: David (Sheila) Kelty of Breman, IN and Margaret (Jim) Thompson of Adrian; five grandchildren: Nathan, Joshua (Susanne), Sean and Olivia Kelty and Meghan Thompson; two great grandchildren, Alexa and Jonah Kelty; and special niece and nephews, Kathy (Tom) Eisenmann, Roger (Margaret) Kindley and Ray (Sandra) Kindley. Besides his first wife, Dora, he was preceded in death by his sister, Leona Ferne Kindley and a grandson, Jake Thompson. All are welcome to the memorial service celebrating Bob’s life at the Zion UB church in Ogden Center, MI on July 6, 2016 at 11:00 AM. Memorial contributions in Bob’s name to Zion United Brethren Church and / or Great Lakes Caring Hospice would be welcome. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home, Tagsold Chapel where online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com.

Robert Kelty

May 15, 1922 - May 31, 2016