Andrew Joseph Kelley (Andy) was born in Oakland,
California on May 8, 1922, where he grew up with his brother Jack. Andy spent most of his life in San Francisco,
the past 44 years happily married to Frances.
Andy was someone that everybody enjoyed being around, a true gentleman. He
was the patriarch of the family and had a great sense of self, a witty sense of
humor, and a demeanor that beckoned you to sit down, relax, and have a “chat.”
Andy was an intellectual, living a life of
constant learning. He attended the University of California, Berkeley and Saint
Mary's College, graduating with a degree in Criminology. Andy continued to study throughout his life, often
attending classes at San Francisco City College and later tutoring his
grandchildren throughout their education.
Andy was a military man who proudly served in
the U.S. Army during WWII, as a Radio Operator on the B17 bomber.
Andy was known to share many great stories of his time in the military.
Unfortunately, Andy lost his cherished brother Jack during this time.
After returning from the Army, Andy enjoyed an
engaging and extended career. He spent
most of his career working for the Federal Government , employed for 38 years
with the Veteran's Hospital in San Francisco where he deployed one of the first
computers. He retired as a Chief Administrator.
After a few years of retirement, Andy grew
restless and returned to work. What Andy thought would be a short stint during
the holidays turned into a 22-year career with Macy’s as a store manager and
statistician.
As a devout Catholic and dedicated parishioner, faith
was always an important part of Andy’s life.
Holy Name of Jesus was his chosen parish, where he served as a
Knight of Columbus and Lector for many years.
Andy was a lover of reading, sports, challenging
puzzles and games, gardening, fishing, radio, good Scotch, and red wine. Most
notably, Andy was a loving and generous family man who always maintained an
open heart and mind.
Andy passed away September 18, 2013 in the
presence of his loving family. He will be a dearly missed husband, father,
grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.
Andy is survived by his loving wife Frances,
children Diane, Jack, Paul, and Gary, grandchildren Lisa, Terri, Eric, and
Maria, great-grandchild Chloe, and siblings Eve and Paulette.
Service to be held on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013, 11:30 am, Holy Names of Jesus Parish, 1555 39th
Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94122.
Private gathering for intimate family and friends to follow directly after service.