Robert (Bob) John Patrick Kelly, aged 78, passed away peacefully on March 6th, 2026, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loved ones during his final days on Earth.
Bob was born on October 10th, 1947, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada to Margaret Kelly and raised by his foster mother, Sybil Jezni, and later by his aunt and uncle, Doris and James Ballard. He attended McGill University before graduating from Concordia University with a master’s degree in philosophy. He worked many jobs over the years, eventually focusing on retirement planning. Bob was a proud Canadian and equally proud to have become an American citizen. He was married to Susan Kelly on 1/19/1991 and was the proud father and stepfather to five children.
Bob 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. He is preceded in death by his mother, Margaret, and his aunt, Doris.
Bob will be remembered best as a man of unmatched consistency of character, never wavering in his belief in the goodness of others or in his uncompromising dedication to do the right thing, no matter the cost. His strength through personal adversity was matched only by his ability to inspire it in others. He embodied the Catholic ethic, living his life with fierce devotion to his faith, his family, and his friends. He loved hockey, tennis, and the quiet times he was able to spend with family.
A requiem Mass will be held on March 11th, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church at 4580 SW 65th Ave, Davie, FL 33314. A brief wake will precede the Mass at 9:15AM.
A Burial will take place on March 11th, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Cemetery, located at 1500 S State Rd 7, North Lauderdale, FL 33068.
There will be a brief gathering with food at the parish following the burial. Reach out to Ryan to details.
Cody McGinn
March 9, 2026, 3:57 pm
Sincerest condolences to Hannah, Ryan, and the entire Kelly family. May he rest in peace
Don Arndt
March 9, 2026, 8:43 pm
Bob was one of the finest men I have ever known. We spent countless hours together talking while watching our boys play hockey, and those conversations are memories I will always treasure.
Bob’s kindness meant a great deal to me. He stood by me during some very difficult times, supporting me through my daughter’s cancer and later my wife’s as well. His friendship, encouragement, and faith made a lasting impact on my life. He also helped deepen my understanding and appreciation of my Catholic faith, something I will always be grateful for.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. The Kelly family is in my prayers, and Bob will always hold a special place in my heart.
Bill Dalzell
March 10, 2026, 1:35 am
I loved you Bobby, you are the epitome of what one seeks in a friendship.. somewhat of a mentor who exposed me to a higher level of consciousness. His impact on my life was always a message of searching for my real self. Our friendship withstood the test of time. (70 years)He was a man of integrity which served him well, Not one to complain. His love of family, his devotion to his beliefs defined who he is and will continue to serve me well on my Journey of Life. May you Rest In Peace. And thank you for being my friend.. Thank you Susan for being his rock and always being there for him.
Jo Seamon
March 11, 2026, 12:27 am
Ryan, Kat and Kelly families,
Sending you all prayers and love for the loss of one great dad and human. Tributes written are true testimonies of an honest, committed and faithful man. May his loving ways continue to be passed on to others .
Love and hugs,
Aunt Joey and Bill