John was great, in fact he loved to tell me the story about how he told his great nieces and nephews to simply refer to him as what he is “great”. For many years I was fortunate enough to see John every Thursday at 4pm. He would come in for his regular massage appointments and we would spend the entire time laughing and sharing stories. Oh boy, did he have THE BEST stories. We also managed to solve all the world’s problems one hour at a time.

As big as his personality was, his heart was even bigger, and I will have few joys greater in my life than being able to hear him tell the stories of his family with such love and admiration. I’ll also never forget the kindness he showed me after my mother had passed. I refused to cancel his appointment that week, and when he came in for his massage I couldn’t help but break down. He sat with me for a few hours as we shared stories about grief and love. At the end he insisted that he pay for his session, and when I tried to refuse he said, “buy your mom some pretty flowers with it.” And I did, I bought her favorite flowers and they were the ones I laid upon her casket when we buried her. His loss will be felt by many, but that is a reflection of a life well lived. I would bet that there are few people that will ever live a life as well as John Kelly. 

To Pat and his family, I am so extremely sorry for your loss. I know there are no words that can do justice to the pain you are experiencing, and I hope you find some comfort in knowing that he loved you all so completely. My deepest condolences to you all during this time. John will always hold a special and dear place in my heart.

John Harold Kelly passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024 in Columbia Maryland. He was 82 years old John was born December 1, 1941 to Jack and Alice G. Kelly of Newcastle Pennsylvania. He is survived by his wife of nearly 55 years, Patricia Brant Kelly, nephew John “Sean“ Harold Kelly and niece, Bridget Marie Kachel. 
In his teenage years he attended Van Nuys high school in California and he worked at Desi Lou Studios. 
After high school he went on to serve our great nation with two tours in the Navy to include Vietnam.  John, had great pride for country and military service. In his later years you were sure to see him with one of his Vietnam veteran ball caps. His time in Vietnam solidified his strong convictions. His heart was full of kindness, honesty, and loyalty. These qualities were evident with all his friendships. People were always drawn to his quick witted humor and entertaining tales. 
He met his bride, Patricia on a blind date. They connected over Sherlock Holmes, James Bond movies and Glenn Yarbrough music. John and Pat were married in 1969. 
He and his business partner, Dianne Irey, started their dental lab, Eastern Prosthetic Specialties, in 1976 in Catonsville, MD. John was President of the Maryland and DC Dental Laboratory Association in 1986 and 1987.
While in Washington PA he designed and cast jewelry that was accepted in the Three Rivers Art Festival - a very prestigious accompaniment!  
He knew everything there was to know about everything except sports!!!  His go to answer for sports trivia was “Wayne Gretzky”.
Over the years, John and Pat traveled the British Isles and throughout Europe on river cruises. John and Dianne closed the dental lab in January 2023. He enjoyed reading, painting and fellowship with his new friends at the smoke shop. 
John brought life and laughter to any room and created fun memories for all he encountered. There was no one quite like “himself“ he will be missed dearly.

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John Harold Kelly

December 1, 1941 – July 3, 2024

Witzke Funeral Homes Inc.

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