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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Obituary: Kelly, Donald K.

KELLY, Donald K. (Age 76) It is with profound grief that we write of the passing of Donald K. Kelly, husband, father, family patriarch, counselor and friend.

A tireless volunteer to many community organizations, Don’s com-mitment to serving touched many individuals.

There are no words for us to describe the enormous void he will leave behind in his family, friends, and his community.

Surrounded by his loving family, Don passed on Tuesday, October 8th after suffering a stroke some days before.

He will be remembered for his unassuming manner, sense of humor, and quiet generosity.

Don’s dedication to family and friends knew no bounds.

He quietly lead by example and was accepting of everyone, his unwavering commitment to his family and friends inspired many.

He leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Diane; and seven children: Dennis (Donna), Darcy (Kathy), Dena (Marc), Dorie (Jerry), Daren (Lisa), Dawn Marie (Mike) and David (Tracy).

He was a devoted grandfather to 19 grandchildren.

He is survived by his sister, Betty Ann (Art); and brother, Larry (Kathy).

He is predeceased by his parents, Albert A. Jr. and Emmaleta Kelly and three brothers and a sister.

Don was raised in Spokane on Sprague Ave. at the site of Kelly Gardens, where his family ran a thriving garden business for some 60 years.

He spent his youth working on the truck farm and delivering flowers for the family business.

His schooling took him from St. Ann’s Grade School to Gonzaga Prep and on to Eastern Washington College.

Working through high school and college at local grocery stores, Don would move on to deliver Wonder Bread which would lead to a career in the restaurant business, first with the Dazy Drive-in and on to partner with Ed Minor and others to help establish the Zip’s Drive-Ins.

Retiring from the restaurant business 20 years ago, Don spent the rest of his life devoting himself to many local civic and charitable organizations.

As a member of The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes, Don served on the Parish Council and Finance Council and was a Eucharistic Minister to shut-ins.

He was past chapter President of Sera International, former President of Spokane Restaurant Assoc., past Commander of Spokane Sail and Power Squadron.

He also served on the Board of West Central Community Center, was a volunteer driver for Care Cars/Elder Services and worked at the Christmas Bureau for over 25 years.

Don and Diane were also recipients of the Bishop’s medal.

Visitation will be 10am-5pm Wednesday and Thursday at Heritage.

A Vigil will be held on Thursday, October 17th at 7:00PM and a Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, October 18th at 10:00AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, 1115 West Riverside.

The Kelly family invites you to a reception immediately following the Funeral Mass in the lower level of the church.

Entombment will be at 2:00PM at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral or Gonzaga Prep.