Peter John Louis Kelley

Peter John Louis Kelley, 86, formerly of Beaver, died Saturday, May 27, 2023, in his home in Avalon, following a long and illustrious life. Son of the late James and Virginia (Johnson) Kelley, he was born and raised "on the hill" in Fair Oaks, PA, along with many brothers and sisters, all of whom preceded him in death. Also preceding him were his three sons Micheal Sean Kelley, Patrick Owen Kelley, and Peter John Kelley.

He is survived by his beloved, devoted wife of 65 years, Bethea Rowley Kelley; their two daughters and sons-in-law, Bridget Lynne Kelley and John Stoothoff of Maple Falls, WA, Mary Kate Kelley and Ryan Little of Pittsburgh; two grandsons, Joseph (Ji) Little and Owen Little of Pittsburgh; two step-grandchildren, Michael Stoothoff of Maple Falls, WA and Jamie Stoothoff of Fort Lauderdale, FL; and generations of beloved nieces and nephews all over the world.

He was a graduate of Sewickley High School and Geneva College; he served in the Marine Corps Reserves and the Air Force. His professional career included many years as a works design engineer in the steel industry followed by many more years teaching math and sciences in public schools and community college. After successfully competing in two marathons and countless other distance races, he coached high school track and cross country.

To his many neighbors and community members, coworkers and co-conspirators, he was a carpenter, mechanic, gardener, birder, stargazer, photographer, storyteller, teacher, coach, volunteer, mentor, thinker, fixer, and friend. All who knew him will remember his zest for life, love of his enormous family, willingness to help anybody in need, and devotion to a certain 1950 Chevrolet Fleetline Deluxe named "Blue."

Friends and family will be received at THE RICHARD D. COLE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 328 Beaver St., Sewickley, PA 15143, on Sunday, June 4th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. (The rosary will be recited in his honor at 3:45 p.m.) A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, June 5th, at 10:30 a.m. in St. James Roman Catholic Church—Divine Redeemer Parish, 200 Walnut St., Sewickley, PA 15143, with interment immediately following in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 Route 68, Rochester, PA 15074.

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