Birth date: Aug 26, 1929 Death date: Jan 30, 2015
Thomas R. Kelly age 85, of Ames, Iowa passed away Friday, January 30, 2015 at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames. A gathering of friends and family will be 4-6:00 p.m. Thursday, at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care 414 Lincoln W Read Obituary
THINKINF of you all, we always liked to listen to Toms stories at Elks conventions, he was always so friendly. He fought very hard...
I will miss this big guy. I love a good story teller and Tom was one of the best! The humor; I think back on how he would tease his Mom, and try to get her goat. He and I loved stewed tomato's, that Ylula would make, and would always try to get the bowl before the other did. Makes me smile, and also hungry ! Karla, my heart goes out to you. You are so very special!
Carla, you are to be commended for the loving care you have given Tom. So sorry to the family for your loss. It is not easy. You do have lots of memeories to share. He and Neal shared the same "second" home. The great people at the Elks Club in Ames.
I will always remember Thomas's entertaining stories, enthusiasm, many talents and awesome spaghetti. It was an honor to have known him. Wishing peace and comfort to all his friends and family.
I met Tom when he stopped to thank me for some rhubarb he made into a pie. Tom was an artist, whether he was cooking or painting. He was adventurous, liked to travel, enjoyed learning, liked a good joke, and expressed his appreciation. He was interesting. I'm hoping these memorable qualities will be a continual source of comfort to Karla, members of the family, and Tom's friends.
So sorry for your loss. He was a great fellow and will be missed by all. Karla and your family are in our thoughts and prayers
Karla and Family - I was so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. If it wasn't for his help, I would not have graduated in Architecture from ISU. I started working as a draftsman for Tom at the Ames Lab when I was a Junior/Senior at AHS. When I started ISU I continued to work for him. His only "requirement" was that I give him my class schedule. That way he would know when I was not available to draft for him. When finals came around, he was very flexible with the work schedule. He was one of my Dad's best friends and because of Tom I was able to put myself through college.
Thanks Tom!
Tom was my brother. Growing up without a father, Tom took over that role. He attended dad daughter dinners. Dressed in a suit and tie and shined shoes, expressing that shoes showed the man's worth. That tipping, those that serve you, also showed one's character. He taught me to dance. And when he sang, he sounded like Dean Martin. I learned respect and to treat others kindly. When he raised his voice, which was often, I listened, he could move faster than anyone I've ever known. He also handed out hugs when I was sad or mad or even really happy. I knew he loved me, and I him, and will miss him dearly.
Words cannot begin to express the sadness in my heart for Tom's family. My prayers to all of you during this difficult time. My love is with you all. Tom was like my 2nd Dad growing up. I will always love you buddy and you will be deeply missed. Bobbi
