Jimmie "Jim" Kelley Sr

KENDALLVILLE — Jimmie "Jim" Kelley Sr., 76, of Kendallville, died on Sunday, October 29, 2017, at his home on Cree Lake.

He was born on April 17, 1941, in Marked Tree, Arkansas, to the late John and Hellen (Fox) Kelley. On December 26, 1959, in Buchanan, Michigan, he married Judith Florey. She survives in Kendallville.

Jim was a substation mechanic for Indiana Michigan Power for 18 years before working for the Town of Avilla utility department, retiring in 2006. He also was the manager of Christmas Lake Village in Santa Claus, Indiana, for several years. He was known for being a genuine people person who loved to tinker around with lawn mowers and small projects around the garage. He loved spending time at the lake.

In addition to his wife, Judy Kelley, he is survived by sons Jimmie Kelley Jr. of Galien, Michigan, and Bill Kelley of Kendallville; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Also surviving are brothers Charles Kelley and Larry Kelley of Buchanan, Michigan, and Ronnie Kelley of Berrien Spring, Michigan; and a sister, Betty Keriger of Benton Harbor, Michigan.

He was preceded in death by a son, Robert Kelley; and a sister, Kathy Martin.

Services will be held at a later date.

Memorials in Jim's memory may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Arrangements are by Harper Funeral Homes, Avilla Chapel, 530 N. Main St., Avilla.

To leave online condolences or sign the guest book, visit www.harperfuneralhomes.com.