John Colonel Kealy

John Colonel Kealy, age 81, passed away on March 9, 2026, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and other health challenges. Known for his enduring sense of humor, John faced life’s difficulties with grace and quiet strength until the very end.

Born in Cleveland to Marian Ward Kealy and Jack Kealy, who operated Kealy Trucking Company, John grew up immersed in the family business. He worked at the company while attending Gilmour Academy and Georgetown University. At age 21, just months into law school, he took over the trucking business following his father’s death. He later graduated from CWRU Law School and successfully balanced a legal career with his responsibilities at Kealy Trucking.

John is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carole Frode Kealy; his children, Christine Spence (Jonah), Kevin (Jennifer), Peter (Clare), and Elizabeth; eight grandchildren, Josiah, Matthew, Elijah, Samuel, Emma, Charlie, Gannon, and Kate; and his sister, Kay Ford (Kevin).

In keeping with the values he lived by, his family has requested that memorial contributions be made to the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland or Our Lady of Peace Church.