Ronnie G. Kelley

Ronnie Giroux Kelley, 53, of St. Joseph, passed away at his home on Friday, Aug. 15, 2003, with his loving wife, Mary and daughter, Jennifer, by his side. Ronnie graduated from Coloma High School in 1969 and attended Western Michigan University. He had a great love of sports, which began as a youngster in little league and junior bowling. During his high school and college days he was an avid basketball and baseball player. He ranked tenth in the Blossomland Bowling Association’s all-time high leader board with an 838 series. In 1979, at the age of 28, he became the proprietor of Kelley’s Bowling Center, which he owned and operated into its 25th season. In his downtime, Ronnie enjoyed all sports, working in his yard, and spending time with his family. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 32 years, Mary Vitale Kelley; daughter, Jennifer (Hoyt) Kelley-Preis; brother, Keith Kelley; aunt, Maurine Bevins; six brothers-in-law — Frank, Jim, John, Tony, Neil and Joe Vitale; two sisters-in-law — Frances Carpenter and Camille Radde; many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jamie and Howard Kelley. Friends may visit with the family from 5 to 8 p.m. today at the Starks and Menchinger Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday at the funeral home with Pastor Bruce Tanner officiating. Burial will take place in North Shore Memory Gardens. Memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Church of Christ or Hospice of Stevensville. If you wish to leave a message of condolence or sign the family guest book, you may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com