Frederick J. Kelly, 96, a longtime resident and “A Great Pillar of the North Haven Community” passed away peacefully on Tuesday December 6, 2016 at the Talmadge Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, East Haven with his family by his side. He was the beloved husband of the late Ellen Townsend Kelly. Fred was born in New Haven on April 17, 1920; son of the late Patrick and Frances Gaiffe Kelly; served his country faithfully in the US Army Air Corp during WWII; had worked for the former New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroads and later as a salesman for Unger and Atlantic Floor Coverings until his retirement. Fred was very active with youth sports having help start the Tomahawk Club and was the founder of North Haven Little League. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Father Donaher Council and received the Knights of Columbus Chair Award. He received numerous honors and awards for his dedication and commitment. In 2006 the gymnasium of the newly built North Haven High School was dedicated in his name. Father of Patricia Arnold (Rick Prisco), Charles (Susan) Kelly, Fritz (Debbie) Kelly and the late Ronald Kelly. Father-in-law of Gayle Kelly. Also survived by seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Predeceased by a son-in-law, Sgt. Robert Arnold No.HPD; brothers Charles and Vincent Kelly; sisters Genevieve Mitchell and Regina Ekberg. To know him was to love him, he was a true “gentleman” who dedicated his life to the youth and their families of North Haven, he will be truly missed. The family would like to extend a special “Thank You” to the staff at Talmadge Park for their care and compassion.
Family and friends are invited to go directly to St. Barnabas Church, 44 Washington Avenue, North Haven on Saturday morning at 10:00 to attend a Mass of Christian burial and are also invited to attend the committal service immediately following with full military honors in All Saints Cemetery. The visiting hours will be Friday from 4 to 8 pm in the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Tomahawk Club, P.O. Box 622, North Haven, CT 06473.
It’s difficult to imagine a life more full than that led by Fred Kelly. Though parting with a beloved patriarch is painful, and we send our condolences to his entire family, the memories are so many and so meaningful so as to keep us smiling, even as we say goodbye. RIP
Dear Bill Mitchell and Family,
We are sending our heartfelt sympathy to you. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during
this extremely difficult time.
With deepest condolences,
Nancy, John , Mark, Jason , his wife Lisa Ferraro and my mom (Mrs.) Nancy (Frank) Porto
My condolences to the entire Kelly family. Fred was a great man in so many ways and part of the “Greatest Generation” R.I.P.
Farewell to the patriarch of an amazing No. Haven family. Rest in peace.
A true gentleman and role model for all. We were blessed to have you be part of our lives. There will never be another Pop Kelly. We love you and we will miss you.
My deepest Sympathies to Patty, Kevin and the entire family. My first introduction to Fred was in the early 80’s as the “go to” carpet guy. It was a privilege to know him and witness his love for the North Haven Community.
Very sorry for your loss. Fred was a wonderful person involved in so many things to better our society. We will miss him. RIP
May wonderful memories bring you comfort at this time. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
My condolences, Lisa Rebmann and family
Our deepest sympathy to the Kelly family. Fred was an incredible individual and the consummate gentleman. It is an honor to have known him.
I met Fast Freddy in Jamaica for Fritz and Debbies’ wedding.After schooling his son Fritz on the golf corse he schooled his grandson Patrick and I in pool.The thing about Freddy was he was so gracious about it felt good to lose to him.
What an honor it was to spend time with this man who defined the word gentleman.From his hat covered head to the bottom of his shiny shoed feet was always dapper. Humble was another trait.The volumes of accolades he received by friends and the community that embraced him was astonishing.
Many people have fond memories of Freddy and because of that he will live on.Hero’s are remembered but legends live forever.Freddy was,is a legend.May the ones left behind find comfort in the memories of good times shared together as well as that we will all see him again.
My condolences , Fred Kelly was a special man. What he did for north haven athletics has raised the bar for future generations to follow.
To Brittney Mitchell and family,
Our sincere sympathies to your family for the loss of Frederick J Kelly. May your memories help to sustain you at this difficult time.
Mr. Kelly was a special neighbor. I’ll never forget the time when I was 8 years old, learning to ride a two-wheel bike which I fell off in front of his house. He took me inside, cleaned my scrapes and bandaged it for me. I have memories of me and Patsy playing ” floor store” with Mr. Kelly’s sample tiles from work. As well, I’ll not forget the time he surprised Mrs. Kelly with a new washing machine for her to wash diapers when Fritzy was born. He was truly a gentle giant with a very kind heart. I extend my deepest condolences to Patsy, Charlie, Fritz and all the extended family.
Our condolences to the family. Fred was the most amazing, compassionate, and caring man. His influence on us and the North Haven community cannot be adequately expressed in words. We are so sorry for your loss and we feel so very fortunate to have known him.
The town of North Haven was made even more special by Fred’s life.
Thank you, dear friend! Rest in peace.