Michael Raymond “Mike” Kelly died on Dec. 10, 2022 in the comfort of his own home surrounded by his loved ones at the age of 70.
He was born on May 5, 1952 in Walla Walla, Wash. to Melvin and Irene Kelly. He was the fourth of seven children, and I am sure he kept his parents very busy. Melvin and Irene raised their seven children in Milton-Freewater.
In 1975 at the age of 24 he met Suzanne Wike, and one year later they were married. Five years into their marriage they welcomed their first born, Derek. Over the next nine years they completed their family of six with daughter Ashlee and twin boys Corey and Colten. Together they raised their four kids in Hermiston. Mike spent many years working for Americold and driving truck. Outside of work is how people know and remember Mike most. There wasn’t a moment that went by that he was not making someone laugh or smile.
Eventually, after 25 years of marriage, Mike and Suzanne went their separate ways. Mike spent a lot of this time working out at the family ranch with his cousin Pat and brothers Larry and Jerry.
In 2004 Mike met Tami Weitz, and the timing was perfect for the both of them. The two of them became lifelong companions and the best of friends. Together they loved fishing, camping, swing dancing, good old rock and roll, and family time. Mike absolutely loved spending time with his grandkids and often ended up on the bottom of the doggy pile.
Mike was diagnosed with prostate cancer and lost this battle about a year after this diagnosis.
Mike is survived by his lifelong love, Tami; the mother to his four children, Suzanne; sons, Derek (Mari), Corey (Sarah) and Colt (Margie); daughter, Ashlee (Jose); stepdaughter, Charli; 14 grandchildren, Tiago, Dominic, Adrick, Maddisyn, Maddox, Scarlett, Colby, Marie, Matthew, Cayden, Diauna, Serenity, Daniel and Sollomon; all six of his siblings, Phyllis Shell, Charlotte Prewitt, Terry (Bill) Cross, Lisa Kelly, Larry (Debbie) Kelly and Jerry (Karen) Kelly; cousin, Pat Kelly; and countless friends, nieces and nephews.
When you think of Mike, please remember all the times he put a smile on your face. Remember him for his signature handle bar mustache, long silver hair, and amazing sense of humor.
A private family celebration will be held.
Please share memories of Mike with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
