Robert John Patrick Kelly

Robert John Patrick Kelly, known to all as Bob, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, at the age of 78 after a long battle with cancer. Born on October 10, 1947, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, to Margaret Kelly, he was raised by his foster mother Sybil Jezni and later by his aunt and uncle Doris and James Ballard. He attended McGill University and earned a master’s degree in philosophy from Concordia University. After working in various fields, he focused his later career on retirement planning. A proud Canadian who cherished his American citizenship, Bob married Susan Kelly on January 19, 1991, and became a devoted father and stepfather to five children.

Bob will be remembered for his unmatched consistency of character. He never wavered in his belief in the goodness of others or in his uncompromising dedication to doing the right thing, no matter the cost. His strength through personal adversity was matched only by his ability to inspire that same strength in those around him. He lived the Catholic ethic with fierce devotion to his faith, his family, and his friends. He found joy in hockey, tennis, and especially in the quiet moments spent with loved ones.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Kelly; their children Brendan, Colleen, Alec, Hannah, and Ryan; and his grandchildren Trey, Eric, Sofia, Quinn, Christopher, Penelope, and Connor. Bob was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret, and his aunt, Doris.