John "Jack" Forsyth Kelly

John “Jack” Forsyth Kelly Sr. passed away on the morning of Wednesday, February 4th in Bonita Springs, Florida. He was 79 years old. Born in Fulton, NY on June 5, 1935, Jack was the eldest son of John M. and Janet Kelly. Jack graduated from Hamilton College (Clinton, NY) June 5, 1955 on his 20th birthday. He was looking forward to celebrating his 60th class reunion later this year. He went on to graduate from the University of Maryland Law School in 1970 on his 35th birthday and spent the remainder of his career in Corporate Law. Jack served in the United States Army from June 1955 to March 1957. He married Margaret “Peggy” Cooper in November 30, 1957. They had 2 children, John and Karen who are now raising families in Seattle, WA and Southbury, CT; respectively. Jack’s career included 25 years with the North American Philips Corporation in the legal department starting as General Counsel for Magnavox in Fort Wayne, IN and rising through the ranks to Vice President and Corporate Officer in their Manhattan, NY office. In 1986, Jack and Peggy moved to Ridgefield, CT. Jack retired in 1997 and, soon thereafter, Jack and Peggy were splitting their reirement between residences in Oxford, CT and Bonita Springs, Florida. Jack’s volunteer work in retirement included the Naples World Affairs Council and Great Decisions. Jack will be most remembered for his fierce loyalty to family and friends, a quick wit, and his dedication to enjoying retirement to its fullest. One of his last travel adventures included cruising through the Panama Canal. His hobbies included golf, hiking, fishing, reading, music. Most of all, he cherished his time with his close friends and family, looking forward to weekends and vacations with his grandchildren known most affectionately to them as “Papa.” Jack is survived by his wife, Margaret “Peggy” Kelly; his son, John (wife Lisa); daughter Karen (husband Brian); his brothers, Wilfred “Billy”; George, and sister, Janet. He was also the proud grandfather to Patrick, Emma, and Jack (John III). A Memorial Service is set for 3:00pm at the Shikany Funeral Home, 28300 Tamiami Trail So., Bonita Springs, FL, 34130. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Hamilton College or The Salvation Army would be most appreciated. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home.

John "Jack" Forsyth Kelly

June 6, 1935 - February 4, 2015