Benjamin Kelly Obituary

May 23, 1924 - May 8, 2008. Benjamin F. Kelly passed from this life to the next surrounded by his family on May 8, 2008. He is survived by his loving wife, Lois, married 61 years; son Pat (Rita) and daughter Jan (Lin); 4 grandchildren; 4 ½ great grandchildren; brother, Don; and numerous nieces and nephews. A Colorado native, he was born in the Bijou Basin and was a resident of Colorado Springs over 51 years. He graduated from Elbert High School, spent 2 years in the Navy, farmed, was a loan officer in Colorado Springs, was a pilot and aircraft mechanic and loved anything associated with aviation, towed gliders at the Air Force Academy for 13 years, and developed Kelly Airpark NE of Colorado Springs. During semi-retirement, he enjoyed his numerous travels with Lois all over the world. A man of extremely strong faith, Ben was very active at First Presbyterian Church in Colorado Springs for 51 years as a member, usher, deacon, elder, and teacher. He was deeply loved by his entire family and highly respected and thought of by all who knew him. We will all miss him, his smiling face and love of life, and his friendship. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at 2:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou Street, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either the Deacon's Fund of First Presbyterian Church or The American Cancer Society, 1445 N. Union, Suite B100, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80909 (specifically direct donations to support cancer research).