Robert Gene Kelly

Robert G. Kelly known by family and friends as "Mike" was Born in Visalia on May 29 l941 to John Henry and Florence (Case) Kelly. Mike lived and worked in Visalia all of his life, and was a friend to many. While growing up he participated in sports and was a Boy Scout. He attended Redwood High and Mt Whitney High where he played basketball, baseball and football. While at Mt Whitney he was the first defensive lineman to win the All-American Award for football. In l958 when Mt Whitney and Redwood battled for the Cowhide game his name along with the other members of Mt Whitney team's was placed on the "Cowhide Blanket" that still hangs in the school's gym. He also played baseball and usually behind home plate as catcher. After graduation he worked for the State of California Farm Labor Office four years. He began working for United Parcel Service in l965 working first in delivery and retired in l995 in Management. Upon retirement he was 54 years old with 30 years of service with UPS. After retirement he played golf buddies with his buddies five times a week at Plaza Golf course. He also played in the Senior Baseball League. Mike bought a travel trailer and enjoyed going to Pismo Beach and through the mid-west, particularly Texas visiting relatives that lived there. SURVIVED BY: Loving Companion: Jeninne Roden of Visalia Daughters: Kimberly Taylor of Visalia Tobi Kelly of Visalia Sister: Patsy K. Bilger of Stockton Grand Children: Brandon Rogers of Oregon Brittany Rogers of Visalia Brock Taylor of Visalia Kaylee Taylor of Visalia Johnny Kelly of Visalia Great Grand Children: Jayden Rogers of Oregon Nathaniel Cantu of Visalia Nephews & Nieces: Thomas Chester Jr. of Porterville Dora & Husband Chares Spray of MacFarlane Norman & wife Jodie Wolfe of Visalia Marion & husband Mark Anderson of Visalia John & wife Majida Bilger of San Diego Mary Frances Bilger of Stockton Also survived by many loving Great Nieces and Nephews PRECEDED IN DEATH: Parents: John & Florence Kelly—Brother: John D. “Bill” (llene) Kelly—Sisters: Frances K. Wolfe and Doris M. (Thomas) Chester—Brother in Law: Richard Bilger SERVICES: Celebration of Life Service: Wednesday, November 27, 2013, 2:00PM at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel BURIAL: At a later date Visalia District Cemetery

Robert Gene Kelly

May 29, 1941 - November 22, 2013