Obituary of John E. Kelly Sr.

John E. Kelly, Sr., 79, of Vineland passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 25, 2018 at Inspira Hospital. Born in Atco, NJ, he was a resident of Vineland for most of his life. Prior to retirement, he was a heating and cooling technician for Lowenstern Supply and GE Mechanical. His outstanding people skills earned him many friendships throughout the city during his career. He was an avid gardener, best at growing upside down tomatoes, and could fix most mechanical things in his reach. In his younger years, he enjoyed the beach and vacationed in Sea Isle City with his family for many summers. His favorite place to relax on a Friday afternoon was South Vineland Tavern. Mr. Kelly is survived by his wife of 57 years, Kathleen V. Kelly (Schill); daughter Donna Marie Kooiker (Dirk) of Holland, MI; son John E. Kelly, Jr. and Carol Giralo of Folsom; grandson Dylan Kelly of Swedesboro; mother Julia A. Kelly of Vineland; sisters Jeanne Forester of Millville, Dania Gullo of Laurel Lake, Marie Kelly of Vineland; brothers Dwight "Buddy" Kelly of Centerton and Benjamin "Jack" Kelly of Florida and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Jacob W. Kelly. The family will welcome friends for viewing on Tuesday, July 31 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., with services immediately following, at Rone Funeral Home, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to the American Heart Association or Saint Isidore Church, 1655 Magnolia Rd, Vineland, NJ 08361.