Michael Kelly was born on an army base in Kansas on July 24, 1962. He lived some of his childhood in Germany, where his mother was born. Michael peacefully transitioned into pure spirit with his Divine Source whom he chose to call Tunkashila on the first day of spring, 3-20-22. He went peacefully on a hospice bed with dear friend, Jude Christensen at his side. She provided emotional and physical support throughout his illness. He was not alone.
Michael was the third and youngest son of Ann Elizabeth and James Gary Kelly. He is survived by his special friend, Bob. Bob and Michael met at a time where they contributed to each other’s strengths and care. Bob was a primary loving support during his cancer journey. Everyone whom he called a friend knew they were special to Michael. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Bill. His one surviving brother, Jim, lives in Mexico.
Michael lived with cancer for five and a half years. He was grateful for his heath care team from St Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Froedert in Milwaukee, and his overnight hospice team at Ft. Memorial Hospital. He trusted and accepted cancer treatments and did not project future outcomes as he fully lived in the present with a positive attitude.
Michael was a strong advocate for recovery from addictions. He shared his addiction and recovery experience, strength, and hope with people in the recovery community for nearly 30 years. He was an asset to people in recovery. It was an honor for him to be the assistant director of the SABLE House 15 years. He had a strong impact on those living there for the purpose of recovery support.
Michael had a passion for creating beauty with interior, flower, and landscape design. His passion was that of a special events designer and coordinator. He enjoyed hiking, helping others, spirituality, meditation, Myofascial Release Bodywork, and laughing, especially being snarky.
Michael’s brother Jim wrote the following for a eulogy:
“…I’m sorry I can’t be with you all to pay respect and honor Mike. I think all of us who knew Mike would agree he was a kind giving soul. This was not the likely outcome for someone who went through some of the experiences Mike was confronted with in his life. As his brother I know Mike as a person who overcame many obstacles to become the giving person he became. He used his mishaps and tragedies that happened to him in his life to help others. Many of you who knew Mike on a personal level know this well. The people who knew him are the better for it. Sometimes he could be quite serious, but considerate in what he was trying to accomplish. I will miss Mike as I’m sure all of you will. He became an enlightened being despite all the dark times he went through in his life. This is what Mike has left us with, the realization that we can overcome darkness and transform into the light. This was Mike’s gift to us all. Wherever you are Mike thank you for everything, thank you for being my brother and thank you for all the people you touched in your life.”
Please join in to celebrate Michael with a memorial brunch to share memories on 3-26-22 from 10 a.m. until noon, at his favorite, Jessica’s Restaurant, at 140 W Main St in Whitewater, Wisconsin. For those who choose to make a financial donation, Michael’s wishes were that donations go to the Dave Gallup Foundation which supports individuals in early recovery. You can use Cash App: $DaveGallupFoundation
As another option, you can donate in Michael’s honor to a charity or non-profit of your choice. Thank you.
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