Brian L. Kelley

Brian L. Kelley age 61 of Grand Rapids, formerly of Greenville, passed away Sunday, August 26, 2018. He was born August 15, 1957 in Greenville, the son of Lavern & Elva (Cooper) Kelley. He is survived by his wife, Lynn (Verstraete ) Kelley, mother, Elva Kelley of Greenville; brother, Mike Kelley of Gowen, and foster brother, Henry (Donna) Glover of Howard City, and children Jennifer (Lee) Iteen of Greenville, Jonathan (Laura) Kelley of Trufant, and Megan Verstraete of Grand Rapids; 6 grandchildren Chantel Roberts, Peter, Laila, Ashlyn, and Brian Kelley and Madalynne Iteen; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Lavern "Pete" Kelley. Brian graduated from Greenville High School in 1976. Following high school, he served four years in the Navy as a Boatswain's mate where his duties included photography, working for the newspaper and lifeguarding. He also received several commendations while serving in the Navy. He loved spending time with his family up North where he, his brother and father built the family cabin. He loved to fish, cook, and play chess. He was self-employed preparing taxes for many years and was very good at finding the best return for his customers. He sold real estate and handled property management. Brian was well known in the Greenville community for being a man of his word, honest and full of integrity. Brian felt strongly about volunteering in the communities where he was involved. He volunteered with his parents at the Greenville VFW. He was actively involved with Greenville Community Church, and most recently volunteered at Pathway Church in Jenison and Jehovah Jireh in Hudsonville. His strong desire for selflessly giving to the community was passed on to his children, who continue that tradition today. Memorial Services will be 11 AM Friday, August 31, 2018 at Greenville Community Church, 6596 Vining Rd, Greenville, MI 48838, with Len Netti and Eric Verstraete officiating. Burial will be in Rest Haven Memory Gardens. Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Brian L. Kelley Memorial Fund at Lake Michigan Credit Union (PO Box 2848 Grand Rapids, MI 49501-2848) to be used for college education and family advancement of Brian's children.