BonnevilleAmerica.com: The Passing of BA Member Don (Grump, Deon) Kelly

Maybe, if really fortunate, once or twice in a lifetime one stumbles upon somebody who is truly a great friend, confidant, inspiration, and a joy to be with. Often we fail to realize that blessing until it is gone and we recount the joy they brought, but, sometimes, we can recognize that blessing while those people are here and part of our lives. He had the greatest, most dry, sarcastic sense of humor. He played the part of the eternal pessimist – but he was just playing. He’d do anything for anyone. Although he’d deny it, he did it because he liked people and saw the good in all. He was bright in most all matters and was especially keen on all things mechanical. He could just as easily talk philosophy as he could cam shafts. He loved and knew music. He was an excellent judge of character, and those that entered his chosen circle of friends did so by his choice alone. No one pushed their way into his realm, but, if you got there, he was your friend through thick or thin. We came from two distinctly different places and met because we rode Triumphs and participated in this forum that has brought so many of us together. We bonded instantly – maybe it was just because of a shared interest in the bikes, but, as one who believes in those sappy notions of fate and Divine Intervention, I believe Don came into my life when I needed him. He served that purpose and much, much more and I’ll be forever thankful. Today I find myself somewhere in the middle of knowing and appreciating Don while he was with us and at the same time feeling I’d neglected to be fully appreciative of such a great friendship until his passing. I knew what a great guy Don was. We spent some time together, but not nearly enough. I tried to stay in touch during his illness, but not hard enough. Sadly, I found out about his death only yesterday – 4 months after. I’m feeling badly about that loss right now, and ashamedly sorrowful for not being a better friend until the end – Like I’m sure he would have been. If you knew him, you feel much like me. If you didn’t know him, I hope you stumble on someone like him.

Don, old buddy, my vision of that eternally perfect place has great roads and equally great weather. The roads are lined with trees on one side and beaches and crashing waves are near the other. There are more bends than your famous buckhorns. Tiki bars and bistros are everywhere – each with great food and even better music. Cool breezes blend with the hot sun, and everyone rides a motorcycle. I’ll see you there and I won’t need any Red Bull! Ride in peace, my friend.

Donald L. Kelly Sr.
Level Green
Donald L. Kelly Sr., 58, of Level Green, died Friday, March 4, 2011, in his home. He was born Nov. 16, 1952, in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Newell J. and Ann Sugden Kelly. Don was a supervisor with Cleveland Brothers Equipment Rental, and was a veteran of the Air Force. He enjoyed riding his Triumph motorcycle and listening to oldies music. Don is survived by his wife of 29 years, Donna J. Krumenaker Kelly; his children, Donald L. Kelly Jr., of Level Green, James Olson, of Ohio, and Jennifer Olson, of Pitcairn; two grandchildren, Alicia and Connor; and his two brothers, George E. Kelly and wife, Rita, and David L. Kelly, all of Florida. Family and friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday in the JOHN M. DOBRINICK FUNERAL HOME INC., 702 Seventh St. (Route 130), Trafford, 412-372-3111. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday in the funeral home with the Rev. Jerry D. Williams officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Penn-Lincoln Memorial Park, North Huntingdon.

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I spent several years trying to be an adult. It just didn't work for me.