David "Dave" Kelley

October 25, 1940 - March 17, 2022

David “Dave” Kelley age 81 of Mentor, passed away Thursday, March 17, 2022 at home with his family by his side. He was born October 25, 1940 in Pittsburgh, PA. Dave was a successful business owner and operator of Watson Power Bulk Material Handling. He was also co-founder of J’s Pizza Market, Mentor. Dave served as Captain in the United States Air Force. During his time in the military, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award as well as the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon. He graduated from Shaler High School in Glenshaw, PA, where he met his high school sweetheart and future wife, Eileen. Dave earned his business degree from Penn State University, and was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Dave was a black belt in Minna Jiu Jitsu and Karate. Dave was smart, kind, a great listener and had the best sense of humor. The laughter was always loudest when Dave was in the room. He was the best kind of friend, father and grandfather, always there if you needed him, giving great advice whether it was about business opportunities, building or remodeling a house, life in general and so much more. Dave loved and protected his family, and was so proud of his kids and grandkids. Surviving David are his children: Michael (Kimberly) Kelley, Susan Kelley and Jonathan (Molly) Kelley; grandchildren: Caroline (Dominick) Kocak, Amy Kelley, Tristan Escalante, Rose and Liam Kelley and girlfriend: Carol Tierney. Preceding David in death are his wife: Eileen (Heller) Kelley and parents: Braham and Elsie (Nicklin) Kelley. A memorial service and reception will be held Saturday, May 28, 2022, 11am at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 7575 Bellflower Rd. Mentor, OH. 44060. In Lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made to the Eileen Kelley Memorial Preschool Scholarship Fund, C/O Starting Point, 4600 Euclid Ave. Suite #500, Cleveland, OH. 44103. www.starting-point.org Arrangements entrusted to Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave. Mentor, OH. 44060. Offer condolences at www.brunners.com