Ronnie L. Kelly

Kelly, Ronnie L. Passed away Monday, March 4, 2013, at the age of 70. He was born January 5, 1943, son of Robert Lee Kelly and Opal Maxine Jackson Kelly. He was raised among the rolling hills overlooking the Mississippi River, south of Louisiana, Missouri, The Native American artifacts he found on the family farm began his interest in Archeology and he completed a Bachelor's degree in Archeology at the University of Missouri, Columbia. While there he completed ROTC and entered the Air Force as a second Lieutenant in 1964. He served his country in South Vietnam and was there in 1968 during the Tet Offensive. During his twenty year career in the Air Force he was posted to bases in Texas, South Carolina, Colorado, Florida, New Mexico, Missouri and California. He spent two years at Howard Air Force Base, Panama Canal Zone, with responsibilities for Command and Control. His service at Whiteman Air Force Base with the Strategic Missile Squadron was very significant for him. he retired in 1984 with the rank of Major. His awards included the Bronze Star, Joint Service Commendation Metal, AF Commendation Medal, AF Good Conduct with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, AF Longevity Service Award Ribbon with three Oak Leaf Clusters. National Defense Service Medal. Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, AF Outstanding Unit Award, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He completed his Master's Degree in Business Administration. He was a member of the American Legion Post 49 and a member of the Honor Guard from 2003 through 2012. He enjoyed tinkering with old cars, dancing and sharing jokes with his friends. He is survived by a sister, Kay Raithel, of Jefferson City, Missouri; a nephew; niece, twin great nephews and twin great nieces, close friends Rory Veronda, Tommy and Ruth Wilbanks, many cousins and exceptional friends. Friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life at American Legion Post 49, March 18, 2013 from 3:00 pm-5:00 pm (1500-1700 hours). Interment March 19, 2013 at 2:15 pm at Santa Fe National Cemetery. The family requests no flowers. Donations may be given to Calumet Presbyterian Church, c/o Treasurer, 25976 Pike 243, Clarksville, MO 63336. Please visit www.danielsfuneral.com, to post a message. Daniels Family Funeral Services 1100 Coal Ave SE Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-842-8800